Maynooth University Department of Sociology Presents Gregory Maney, Harry W. Wachtel Distinguished Teacher Professor for the Study of Nonviolent Social Change, Hofstra University, USA
Explaining Political Violence against Civilians in Northern Ireland: A Contention-Oriented Approach
Abstract: In contrast to prevalent theories of terrorism, I argue for a contention-oriented approach where levels and forms of political violence against civilians depend upon: (1) the strategies of combatants; (2) the means of contention; (3) the locations of allies and opponents; (4) the collective identities of combatants; and (5) the dynamics of contention, including whether or not representatives of paramilitary organizations are included in formal peace processes. Quantitative analyses of a multi-source database of civilian deaths taking place in Northern Ireland between 1966 and 2006 offer preliminary support for this approach. The study underscores the insights provided by theories and methods used in the fields of social movements and peace and conflict studies.
Dr. Maney received his PhD in Sociology from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. He has authored and co-authored numerous peer-reviewed academic journal articles and books focusing upon peace movement discourses, the dynamics of ethno-nationalist contention, and strategies for sustaining peace processes. He is co-director of the Irish Studies programme and director for Active Citizenship and Community Partnerships at the Center for Civic Engagement at Hofstra.
For more details, please contact brian.conway@mu.ie