Shinners, Dissos and Dissenters: Irish Republican Media Activism Since the Good Friday Agreement

Shinners, Dissos, and Dissenters is a comprehensive analysis of Irish republican media activism since 1998, exploring the development of newspapers, magazines, and online spaces amidst schism and dissent, and the impact of the Peace Process and internal ideological conflicts on shaping the ideology.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 224 pages
Publication date: 11 October 2019
Publisher: Manchester University Press

Shinners, Dissos, and Dissenters is a comprehensive examination of the evolution of Irish republican media activism since 1998 and the turbulent years that ensued after the end of the Troubles. This groundbreaking study is the first in-depth analysis of the newspapers, magazines, and online spaces where various strands of Irish republicanism emerged and were articulated during a period characterized by schism and dissent, highlighting the potential for a return to violence for dissidents. Drawing upon an extensive analysis of Irish republican media outlets and insightful interviews with the key activists responsible for their production, this book offers a captivating snapshot of a political ideology in transition, shaped by the forces of the Peace Process and the often violent internal ideological schism that threatened a revival of the Troubles.

The book explores the historical context of Irish republicanism, tracing its roots back to the 19th century and the struggle for Irish independence. It examines the emergence of various media platforms as tools for expressing republican ideology and the challenges faced by activists in navigating the complex terrain of political discourse and media regulation.

One of the key themes of the book is the role of newspapers and magazines in shaping public opinion and influencing political outcomes. It highlights the importance of these media outlets in disseminating republican messages, promoting a sense of identity and solidarity among Irish republicans, and challenging the dominant narratives of the Irish state and its institutions. However, the book also notes the challenges faced by these media outlets, including censorship, surveillance, and the threat of violence from both state and non-state actors.

The online spaces, particularly social media platforms, have become increasingly important in recent years as a means of expressing republican ideology and mobilizing support. The book examines the rise of social media activism, the challenges it presents, and the opportunities it offers for promoting republicanism and challenging the status quo. It also explores the role of online communities in fostering a sense of belonging and solidarity among Irish republicans, particularly those who may feel marginalized or isolated in their offline lives.

Another key theme of the book is the internal ideological schism that has plagued Irish republicanism in recent years. It examines the competing visions and priorities of different factions within the republican movement, including the Official Irish Republican Army (OIRA), Sinn Féin, and the Irish Republican Brotherhood (IRB). The book explores the tensions and conflicts that have arisen between these factions, as well as the efforts made to reconcile them and promote a unified republican agenda.

The book also examines the impact of the Peace Process on Irish republican media activism. It highlights the challenges faced by activists in transitioning from a conflict-oriented mindset to a peace-building one, as well as the opportunities it offers for promoting reconciliation and social change. It also explores the role of the media in shaping public perceptions of the Peace Process and the challenges faced by activists in navigating the complex terrain of media coverage and representation.

Throughout the book, the authors draw upon a wealth of primary sources, including newspaper articles, magazine articles, interviews, and official documents, to provide a detailed and nuanced account of the development of Irish republican media activism since 1998. The authors also incorporate their own insights and experiences as activists and researchers to provide a personal and empathetic perspective on the challenges and opportunities faced by Irish republicans in the media.

In conclusion, Shinners, Dissos, and Dissenters is a groundbreaking and essential contribution to the study of Irish republicanism and media activism. It offers a comprehensive analysis of the historical, political, and social context in which Irish republicanism has developed and been articulated, providing a valuable insight into the challenges and opportunities faced by activists in promoting their ideology and achieving their goals. This book will be of interest to scholars, researchers, and activists alike, as it sheds light on the complex and multifaceted nature of Irish republicanism and its relationship with the media.

Weight: 336g
Dimension: 231 x 151 x 12 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781526114259