Security After the Unthinkable: Terror and Disenchantment in Norway

This book builds a theoretical perspective for explaining what security remains after the security event, studying the evolution of security thinking before, during, and after the 2011 terrorist attack in Utøya and Oslo, Norway. It develops a general theory of security that contributes to ongoing debates on non-military security, asymmetric warfare, ontological security, and human security. It also revisits the nature of terrorism and re-conceptualises the way counter- and anti-terrorism are embedded in social, cultural, and national consciousness.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 296 pages
Publication date: 27 February 2024
Publisher: Manchester University Press

This book offers a comprehensive theoretical framework for understanding the residual security implications following a security event. It delves into a detailed examination of the evolution of security thinking before, during, and after the 2011 terrorist attacks in Utøya and Oslo, Norway. By tracking the political discourse and institutional responses, the book develops a theory of "terror and disenchantment." This theory contributes to ongoing discussions on non-military security, asymmetric warfare, ontological security, and human security. It also revisits the nature of terrorism, the sense of its practice, and re-conceptualizes the way counter- and anti-terrorism are embedded in social, cultural, and national consciousness.

The book's theoretical framework is built upon a thorough analysis of the historical, social, and political contexts surrounding the 2011 attacks. It explores the shifting paradigms of security, from traditional notions of state-based protection to more holistic approaches that consider the complex interplay of social, cultural, and technological factors. The book also examines the role of media and propaganda in shaping public perceptions of security and the impact of these perceptions on policymaking.

One of the key insights of the book is that security is not merely a matter of physical protection but also encompasses the psychological and social dimensions. It recognizes that terrorism is not just a threat to physical safety but also to the sense of security and belonging that individuals and communities cherish. The book argues that counter-terrorism measures must address not only the immediate physical threats but also the underlying social and cultural factors that contribute to the emergence and persistence of terrorism.

To achieve this, the book proposes a multi-faceted approach that combines military, political, economic, and social interventions. It emphasizes the importance of building resilience and promoting social cohesion among vulnerable communities. It also advocates for a more nuanced understanding of the complex relationships between different cultures and religions, recognizing that these relationships can be sources of strength and stability rather than sources of conflict.

Overall, this book provides a valuable contribution to the field of security studies by offering a comprehensive and nuanced understanding of the residual security implications following a security event. It sheds light on the complex dynamics of terrorism, the role of social and cultural factors in shaping security perceptions, and the need for a multi-faceted approach to counter-terrorism that addresses both the immediate physical threats and the underlying social and cultural factors that contribute to terrorism.

Weight: 416g
Dimension: 234 x 156 x 16 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781526180063