Disordered Violence: How Gender, Race and Heteronormativity Structure Terrorism

A feminist interrogation of how terrorism is constructed as a violence that upsets the order of international politics, looking at how gender, race, and heteronormative expectations of public life shape Western understandings of terrorism as irrational, immoral, and illegitimate. It also interrogates how the current counterterrorism focus upon radicalization is another way of constructing terrorists outside of the Western ideal and argues that mainstream Terrorism Studies must contend with the growing misogynist and racialized violence against women.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 216 pages
Publication date: 30 November 2021
Publisher: Edinburgh University Press

A feminist exploration of the construction of terrorism as a disruptive force in international politics. This book delves into the intricate ways in which gender, race, and heteronormative norms influence Western perceptions of terrorism as irrational, immoral, and illegitimate. It examines the narratives surrounding eight renowned terrorist actors, seeking to uncover gendered, racial, and sexualized assumptions in the storytelling. Furthermore, it critically interrogates the current counterterrorism approach, which often perpetuates the notion of terrorists as outsiders to the Western ideal. Ultimately, the book argues that mainstream Terrorism Studies must address the escalating misogynist and racialized violence against women.

Gender, race, and heteronormative expectations of public life play a significant role in shaping Western perceptions of terrorism. This book explores how these factors contribute to the irrational, immoral, and illegitimate characterization of terrorism. It examines the profiles of eight well-known terrorist actors, seeking to uncover gendered, racial, and sexualized assumptions in the storytelling. Additionally, the book challenges the current counterterrorism focus on radicalization, arguing that it further constructs terrorists outside of the Western ideal.

Furthermore, the book emphasizes the need for mainstream Terrorism Studies to address the growing misogynist and racialized violence against women. It argues that the study of terrorism must be comprehensive and inclusive, taking into account the diverse experiences and perspectives of women and marginalized communities. By recognizing the intersectionality of gender, race, and terrorism, scholars can develop more effective strategies for countering terrorism and promoting peace and security.

In conclusion, this book offers a feminist interrogation of the construction of terrorism as a violence that upsets the order of international politics. It highlights the role of gender, race, and heteronormative expectations in shaping Western perceptions of terrorism and challenges the dominant narratives surrounding terrorist actors. By advocating for a more inclusive and intersectional approach to Terrorism Studies, the book contributes to a deeper understanding of the complex factors that contribute to terrorism and the urgent need to address the misogynist and racialized violence against women.

Weight: 348g
Dimension: 155 x 232 x 20 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781474491891