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Summary Literature notes Collective Violence
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Literature collective violenceLecture 1
Belavadi, S., Rinella, M.J., Hogg, M.A. (2020). When social identity-defining groups become violent
(Chapter 2). In Ireland et al (eds). Handbook of collective violence (2020).
Collective Violence: A Comprehensive Social Identity Approach
Collective violence represents a spectrum of organized, sustained actions of harm perpetrated by one
group against another, often under the guidance of influential leaders. This expanded summary
provides a deep dive into the dynamics of intergroup relations, identity-based motives, and
leadership roles that mobilize groups toward conflict and violence. It also discusses the psychological
and social underpinnings that sustain such behaviors.
What is Collective Violence?
Collective violence is characterized by orchestrated, coordinated violent acts performed by groups
such as nations, ethnic or religious factions, or terrorist organizations. Rooted in intergroup divisions,
it encompasses wars, genocides, gang violence, and terrorism. Key dynamics include a shared sense
of identity, the influence of leaders, and dehumanizing ideologies that justify violence.
The Social Identity Framework
Social Identity and Self-Categorization
• Definition: Social identity refers to individuals' sense of self derived from group
memberships. Groups provide a comparative framework to understand "us" (in-group) versus
"them" (out-group).
• Prototypes: Shared beliefs within groups create stereotypes that minimize in-group
differences while amplifying intergroup distinctions.
Binary Distinctions and Polarization
• Polarized identities form when groups rigidly define themselves in contrast to others, often as
a response to identity threats.
• Such divisions are cemented in contexts of heightened uncertainty, where individuals seek a
clear and distinct sense of self through group alignment.
Core Social Identity Motives
Uncertainty Reduction
• Premise: Uncertainty about one’s identity drives individuals to align with groups that offer
clear, well-defined boundaries.
• Contexts of Heightened Uncertainty: Economic turmoil, tense intergroup relations, and
existential threats amplify the need for rigid group memberships.
• Impacts: Groups adopt rigid norms, demonize out-groups, and justify acts of violence as
protective measures.
,Collective Self-Enhancement
• Premise: Groups derive positive esteem through intergroup comparisons, fostering in-group
favoritism and, under threat, out-group derogation.
• Relative Deprivation: Feeling disadvantaged relative to out-groups heightens resentment,
leading to prejudice, radicalization, and even violence.
Drivers of Intergroup Violence
Resource Threats
• Realistic Conflict: Competition for scarce resources (e.g., jobs, territory) fosters tension and
escalates into conflict, as demonstrated in Sherif’s Robber’s Cave Experiment.
• Narratives of Deprivation: Leaders articulate injustices, portraying the out-group as a threat
to mobilize collective action.
Dehumanization
• Mechanisms: Out-groups are framed as subhuman, immoral, or lacking human essence (e.g.,
"vermin" during the Holocaust).
• Types:
o Animalistic Dehumanization: Comparing out-groups to savages or animals.
o Mechanistic Dehumanization: Viewing out-groups as robotic or emotionless.
• Impact: Dehumanization legitimizes extreme actions like genocide or systemic oppression.
Collective Victimhood
• Premise: Groups frame themselves as victims of out-group aggression, intensifying divisions
and justifying retaliation.
• Identity Trap: Victimhood narratives reinforce zero-sum dynamics, preventing reconciliation
and fueling hatred.
The Role of Leaders
Identity Entrepreneurs
• Prototypical Leaders: Trusted and liked figures who embody group norms, shaping collective
identity.
• Influence Under Uncertainty: In uncertain times, even non-prototypical or autocratic leaders
gain traction by offering clear, unifying visions.
Tactics of Mobilization
• Leaders exploit intergroup insecurities through:
o Exaggerating Out-Group Threats: Creating urgency and fear.
o Promoting Polarized Narratives: Emphasizing binary divisions.
o Suppressing Dissent: Enforcing conformity to protect in-group boundaries.
, Radicalization and the Escalation Staircase
Moghaddam’s staircase metaphor illustrates the progression from discontent to violence:
1. Ground Floor: General feelings of deprivation and discontent.
2. Intermediate Floors: Entrenchment of rigid group ideologies and recruitment into radical
organizations.
3. Top Floors: Justifications for violence framed as noble and protective acts, often
dehumanizing the out-group.
Implications for Reconciliation
Barriers to Peace
• Rigid group identities, dehumanizing narratives, and entrenched victimhood make
reconciliation daunting.
• Leaders who thrive on division suppress efforts for moderation or dialogue.
Paths to Resolution
• Addressing identity concerns and perceived threats through inclusive narratives and fostering
intergroup cooperation are key to breaking cycles of violence.
Takeaway
The interplay of social identity needs, group dynamics, and leadership influence can transform
intergroup differences into violent conflict. Recognizing these mechanisms is crucial for developing
strategies to mitigate collective violence and promote peaceful coexistence.
, Zahn, H.H., Brownstein, M.A., Jackson, S.L. (2004). Violence: from theory to research. Pages 252 –
257
Introduction to the Theme
The text explores significant psychological and social constructs associated with intergroup dynamics
and collective behavior. It delves into how specific triggers—such as group-based identity, leadership
influence, and systemic narratives—can escalate intergroup tensions into extreme behaviors,
including violence and aggression.
Core Themes and Discussions
Group-Based Identities and Social Behavior
• Foundation of Identity: Group memberships are central to an individual's sense of self. These
identities influence how people perceive others, categorize relationships, and engage with
society.
• In-Group and Out-Group Dynamics: A binary lens of "us" vs. "them" fosters in-group
favoritism and out-group bias. When exaggerated, these dynamics contribute to stereotyping
and intergroup conflict.
• Prototypes and Stereotypes: Groups often define themselves through shared prototypes that
dictate their norms, values, and attitudes, which then shape their interactions with others.
Leadership Influence in Group Dynamics
• Prototypical Leaders: Leaders embodying the core values and norms of their group exert
significant influence. Their rhetoric and actions shape group narratives and intergroup
relations.
• Autocratic Leadership: In times of uncertainty, followers may gravitate toward authoritarian
figures who promise clarity and direction, even if they foster divisiveness.
Conflict Escalation and Polarization
• Triggers of Conflict: Competition for resources, perceived threats, and identity challenges can
intensify intergroup divisions.
• Mechanisms of Radicalization: Social and psychological processes turn group identities into
rigid constructs, with heightened in-group allegiance and demonization of the out-group.
• Narratives of Dehumanization: Painting out-groups as subhuman or inherently evil serves as
a justification for exclusion or aggression.
Collective Behavior and Violence
• Mobilization for Violence: Shared grievances and leadership guidance transform intergroup
conflict into collective violence.
• Radical Acts: Over time, hostility intensifies, and violence becomes framed as a moral or
protective duty of the in-group.
Conclusion and Implications
Understanding these dynamics is critical for addressing intergroup conflicts and preventing escalation
into violence. Leaders, narratives, and social constructs play interdependent roles in shaping group
behavior, offering potential intervention points for fostering reconciliation and cooperation.
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