The article discusses the rise of societal and ethnic conflicts. It focuses on some of the analytical tools designed to illuminate these processes. More specifically it builds on the framework of the so-called "Copenhagen School of Security Studies" but seeks to develop a more flexible approach on the concept of identity. To understand how an identity gains strength, Roland Barthes’ theory of myths is examined and combined with Michel Foucault's concept of power. Finally a concept of agency is added, namely what has been labeled a “conflict entrepreneur”. It is argued that by combining these theoretical insights the process of constructing Self and Other, and the subsequent alienation of those who not fit these categories, will be better understood.
Keywords
agency, Baltic states, Burundi, Copenhagen School of Security Studies, critical security studies (CSS), identity, Michel Foucault, NATO, Roland Barthes, securitization, societal and ethnic conflicts
Publication Date
11-2000
Recommended Citation
Peace and Conflict Studies
(2000)
"Volume 7, Number 2 (November 2000),"
Peace and Conflict Studies: Vol. 7:
No.
2, Article 4.
Available at:
https://nsuworks.nova.edu/pcs/vol7/iss2/4
