Drumbeat: New Media and the Radicalization and Militarization of Young People

The normalization of warfare and political violence, particularly towards young people, is a growing concern in the twenty-first century. Social war has increasingly targeted the young through media and direct acts of violence, such as the massacre of children and the use of child soldiers. This book examines the mechanisms through which forms of media and other digital and web-based artefacts assist in the militarization and radicalization of the young. It distinguishes between radicalization, which is applied by non-State agents, and militarization, which is applied by State agents. The book argues that militarization has become a powerful societal force, re-configuring the daily conduct of life in the West and that new media provides the conduits through which this process is legitimized, celebrated and promulgated.

Format: Hardback
Length: 176 pages
Publication date: 03 May 2021
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

The twenty-first century witnesses the unsettling trend of normalization of warfare and political violence, particularly among the youth. Global political events underscore the extent to which young individuals have become targets of both state and non-state actors in the pursuit of war and terror. This phenomenon can be aptly described as a social war, with the young being specifically targeted through various means, including media (social media, the internet, and video games) and direct acts of violence (such as the massacre of children, the deployment of child soldiers, and the use of children in martyrdom operations). The appropriation of young people as political and military resources through processes of radicalization and militarization demands thorough scrutiny.

Drumbeat delves into these critical issues within the framework of militarization and the emergence of a state of perpetual warfare. The book distinguishes between radicalization, which involves the use of propaganda and ideological methods by non-state agents, and militarization, which pertains to the deployment of such tactics by state actors to effectively wage war. The central focus of this book is to examine the mechanisms through which forms of media, along with other digital and web-based artefacts, contribute to the militarization and radicalization of young individuals.

The evidence supporting the impact of various forms of media on the recruitment and promotion of ideological frames among the youth is mounting. Non-state actors, such as extremist religious groups and the Alt-Right, have demonstrated remarkable success in leveraging new media platforms to spread their messages and attract young followers. Social media, in particular, has become a powerful tool for these actors to disseminate their ideologies, recruit members, and incite violence. The anonymity and accessibility provided by these platforms enable young individuals to connect with like-minded individuals and engage in extremist activities without fear of consequences.

Furthermore, video and video games have also played a significant role in the militarization and radicalization of the young. These interactive forms of media provide a platform for young individuals to simulate and experience warfare, which can desensitize them to violence and promote aggressive behavior. The immersive nature of these games can also foster a sense of camaraderie and belonging among extremist groups, further strengthening their influence.

It is crucial to address these issues promptly and effectively. The normalization of warfare and political violence among the young poses a significant threat to global stability and security. By examining the mechanisms through which media and other digital and web-based artefacts contribute to militarization and radicalization, we can develop strategies to mitigate these risks and promote peace and social cohesion. This requires a collaborative effort from governments, media organizations, educational institutions, and civil society to promote responsible media consumption, counter extremist narratives, and provide youth with alternative sources of inspiration and empowerment.

In conclusion, the twenty-first century presents a complex and challenging landscape, where the normalization of warfare and political violence, particularly among the young, is a growing concern. Drumbeat offers a valuable contribution to our understanding of these issues by examining the mechanisms through which media and other digital and web-based artefacts contribute to militarization and radicalization. By addressing these challenges collectively, we can work towards a safer and more peaceful world for all generations.

Weight: 503g
Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781138043268