Theories of Violent Conflict

by Jolle Demmers

This revised and updated second edition introduces students of violent conflict to a variety of prominent theoretical approaches, and examines the ontological stances and epistemological traditions underlying these approaches. Theories of Violent Conflict takes the centrality of the ‘group’ as an actor in contemporary conflict as a point of departure, leaving us with three main • What makes a group? • Why and how does a group resort to violence? • Why and how do or don’t they stop? The book examines and compares the ways by which these questions are addressed from a number of primordialism/constructivism, social identity theory, critical political economy, human needs theory, relative deprivation theory, collective action theory and rational choice theory. The final chapter aims to synthesize structure and agency-based theories by proposing a critical discourse analysis of violent conflict. With new material on violence, religion, extremism and military urbanism, this book will be essential reading for students of war and conflict studies, peace studies, conflict analysis and conflict resolution, and ethnic conflict, as well as security studies and IR in general.

Genres: Nonfiction, Political Science

176 pages, Paperback

First published September 15, 2011

Reviews

[Imane]

Highly theoretical so I wouldn't recommend to anyone not looking to explore how violent conflicts are framed and how their analysis is embedded in reseach and policymaking but definitely super interesting especially when thinking about how certain conflicts are framed in the Global South by hegemonistic imperialist powers in their policies (thinking about the US) and also supranational bodies like the UN

[Drick · Rating 3 out of 5]

I read this book for a course on Conflict analysis. Essentially the author summarizes the major theories put forth as to the reasons groups/nations engage in violent conflict. The author draws heavily from the Bosnian conflict but other conflicts also. It is highly theoretical which made it hard to grasp at times unless you knew the concrete realities on the ground

[Sara · Rating 5 out of 5]

new personal academic bible just dropped

[Angel 一匹狼 · Rating 3 out of 5]

"Theories of Violent Conflict" is, as its title coda says, an introduction to violent conflict. Obvious. What is not so obvious is that it is actually a very good account of the theories and also, and this is important, a very clear and easy to understand one, with quite a lot of examples and much information that will be helpful to anyone interested in the subject.

Jolle Demmers does a great job of introducing the reader to a new world of complication, where things become more and more grey the further you read. It has, as it almost always happens in these kind of books, some moments where the style and the density become difficult to overcome, and in a bad day, it will be almost unbearable. But those are only very short passages, as she keeps everything in a nice pace.

If we get into the subjects the book touches, there is a lot to learn from, from the way identities are created, to how human create discourse or how we frame the "guilty" part in a conflict. It will probably leave the reader with more questions, but many answers will be there too.

Very good book. Recommended.

7/10

[Nguyen Tran · Rating 5 out of 5]

From cover to cover, Jolle seamlessly navigates the intricate landscape of conflict theories, presenting ontological and epistemological approaches in a way that is both accessible and engaging.

What sets this book apart is its ability to captivate readers without sacrificing intellectual rigor. The author skillfully balances clarity with complex theories, ensuring that even those new to the subject can follow along effortlessly, while seasoned scholars will find fresh insights and perspectives. It is a testament to Jolle's talent that the book manages to be informative and enlightening without ever becoming too theoretical, dull, or overwhelming.

In addition to its captivating content, the book offers a valuable resource for further exploration. The inclusion of a holistic recommendation section at the end of each chapter serves as a guide for those who wish to delve deeper into the field. Whether you are a student, researcher, or simply curious, this feature ensures that your journey through conflict analysis can continue long after you have finished the book.