Islamic activism: A social movement theory approach (original) (raw)
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2009
The aim of this working paper is to demonstrate how theoretical tools from the social movement literature can contribute to the analysis of radical Islamic activism. Four types of explanations are suggested. First, an individual and socio-psychological explanation focusing on identity pressure and transformation at the individual and group levels. Second, a network and organization explanation with two main elements: the importance of personal networks in recruitment and the role played by existing institutions and organizations (e.g. mosques and prisons) in recruitment processes. Third, a structural and political environment explanation that considers two things: how radical activism is shaped through its interaction with authorities and by the public debate climate. Fourth, a media and communication explanation with two emphases: the use of symbols in radical activist communication and the importance of communication technologies (the Internet) and a new and more complex global media