Moving Beyond Sectarianism: Religion, Conflict and Reconciliation in Northern Ireland

by Joseph Liechty

This work looks at sectarianism, noting that in its day-to-day manifestations it is perhaps most remarkable for being so widespread as to be invisible.

Genres: Ireland, Religion

384 pages, Paperback

First published January 31, 2001

Reviews

[Jason Blean · Rating 5 out of 5]

A meaty book, this requires much thought and processing to gain its benefits. However, such effort is richly rewarded in terms of understanding where we are in Northern Ireland and where we need to go to, in terms of the sectarianism that has stifled growth as a society at so many levels over so many decades. Though published in 2001, this book is still highly relevant to the post-Good Friday/Belfast Agreement era, since many of the issues, in particular sectarian mindsets, and the acceptance of a "benign apartheid" are still clearly visible today in Northern Ireland. Liechty and Clegg take long hard looks at both Protestant, Roman Catholic and other types of sectarianism as well as the history of violent sectarianism in Ireland which has impacted relations today and left thousands bereaved and injured. It is a balanced analysis of all the major contributors to what they accurately call a "sectarian system" in which "all are implicated". For example, many positive aspects to groups such as the Orange Order are highlighted and they are treated more kindly than is often the case in the media. The honesty and humility of their research findings and discussion is a hopeful antidote to the seemingly intractable problem of sectarianism in Northern Ireland. Without wanting to sound cliched this is a book all should read, whether those who have suffered at the sharp end of sectarianism or those who believe they "haven't a sectarian bone in their body". They also give many practical steps on how to identify and move beyond sectarianism, setting out an inspiring vision under the moral imperative of reconciliation for those who call themselves Christian: "A place...in which, proactively and without inducement or coertion, relationships of blame are giving way to taking responsibility and repentance; separating to engagement and forgiveness; overlooking to self-emptying and inclusivity; belittling, dehumanising and demonising to mutual recognition and respect; dominating to inter-dependence; and attacking to peaceful co-existence." Healing words.

[Nicole Shepard · Rating 5 out of 5]

Clear thinking, very insightful, and awfully applicable to more than just the Irish/British communities.