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Identity conflict, ethnocentrism and social cohesion

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  • Sestito, Matteo

Abstract

This paper uses a novel dataset on ethnic warfare to shed light on how conflict affects social identification and cohesion. A large body of anecdotal studies suggests that ethnic identities become more salient at times of conflict. Using data from thirty-six African countries, I provide econometric evidence to this notion. The relationship between ethnic conflict and various measures of social cohesion is also examined, revealing a positive link between the two. The finding is understood as a result of the ethnocentric dynamics generated by conflict: as warfare strengthens ethnic identification, prosocial behaviour increases, albeit primarily towards co-ethnics. This parochial interpretation is strengthened by the use of remote violence and the conditionality of conflict-induced prosocial behaviour on low levels of ethnic fractionalisation.

Suggested Citation

  • Sestito, Matteo, 2025. "Identity conflict, ethnocentrism and social cohesion," Journal of Development Economics, Elsevier, vol. 174(C).
  • Handle: RePEc:eee:deveco:v:174:y:2025:i:c:s0304387824001755
    DOI: 10.1016/j.jdeveco.2024.103426
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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Ethnic conflict; Social cohesion; Identity; Africa;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • D74 - Microeconomics - - Analysis of Collective Decision-Making - - - Conflict; Conflict Resolution; Alliances; Revolutions
    • N47 - Economic History - - Government, War, Law, International Relations, and Regulation - - - Africa; Oceania
    • O55 - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth - - Economywide Country Studies - - - Africa
    • Z13 - Other Special Topics - - Cultural Economics - - - Economic Sociology; Economic Anthropology; Language; Social and Economic Stratification

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