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‘Us’ and ‘Them’: Terrorism, Conflict and (O)ther Discursive Formations

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  • Steven Talbot

Abstract

Research into terrorism has traditionally examined the relationship between terrorist activity and a variety of economic, religious, and geopolitical issues associated with modernity and globalisation, in an attempt to understand and explain this global phenomenon. This paper extends this inquiry further by exploring the extent to which the construction of Self and Other dichotomies are used as instruments for domination, self actualisation, and mobilisation within discourses of terrorism and security. The paper proposes that issues of Otherness are a vital and often missing component in understanding terrorism and counter-terrorist activity. In doing so, it argues that the construction of ‘polarised collective identities’ which accentuate perceived (cultural) differences between terrorists and their intended targets (and their respective host nations) play an integral role in shaping how we identify and respond to emerging threats. Furthermore, it is suggested that the construction and maintenance of these identities not only has a tendency to homogenise populations, but also creates antagonistic and conflict-orientated relationships resistant to resolution.

Suggested Citation

  • Steven Talbot, 2008. "‘Us’ and ‘Them’: Terrorism, Conflict and (O)ther Discursive Formations," Sociological Research Online, , vol. 13(1), pages 15-30, January.
    • Handle: RePEc:sae:socres:v:13:y:2008:i:1:p:15-30
    DOI: 10.5153/sro.1689
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Benet Davetian, 2001. "Moral Tensions Between Western and Islamic Cultures: The Need for Additional Sociological Studies of Dissonance in the Wake of September 11," Sociological Research Online, , vol. 6(3), pages 25-30, November.
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