Disrupting Pathways to Genocide

As a key element of power in the 20th century, understanding the role of ideology in genocidal states is critical. The key distinctive elements in this work revolve around tracing ideological evolution in the years of radicalisation prior to and in the earliest years of genocidal aggression. Murray examines the process of ideological evolution in the Armenian genocide, focusing on the European theatre in the 20th century and expanding her results to provide a global perspective and a critical framework for understanding future atrocities. Making use of theories of cumulative radicalisation, she looks at key themes important in nationalist movements: extreme otherness, the nation and homeland. In showing that ideology is both a form of structure and of agency, Murray provides a unique insight into how institutions participate in radicalising states. She discusses the complexities of the thematic cumulative radicalisation of ideology, presenting new guidelines that will aid attempts to identify states at various stages of the radicalisation process and advise on the prevention of future atrocities.--