The Removed by Brandon Hobson: Revealing Power Dynamics

Abstract

State power, environmental destruction, and Indigenous resiliency come together in Brandon Hobson's The Removed to create a moving narrative tableau. The goal of this study is to use Michel Foucault's theory of biopolitics to shed light on the biopolitical dynamics present in the book, specifically looking at the methods of biological governance and population control. Environmental racism and past Removal programs are skilfully brought to light in Hobson's narrative, which shows how these interventions were used as biopower strategies. The study reveals the complex and frequently hidden forms of life control by investigating the widespread monitoring and medicalisation of Indigenous bodies. This approach provides a more nuanced view of the novel's intricate power dynamics and resistance dynamics, while also highlighting the specific biopolitical issues that Indigenous populations encounter. Using this perspective, the article will analyse how Hobson's writings shed light on the nuanced forms of control, highlighting the strength and autonomy of Indigenous communities despite biopolitical domination. This research sheds light on the unique biopolitical struggles faced by Indigenous people and helps to clarify the novel's multi-layered power and resistance dynamics. This paper will analyse how Hobson's research sheds light on the complex forms of control and, by extension, the agency and resiliency of Indigenous people as they confront biopolitical dominance.