The Language of Violent Jihad

Violent jihadists use language to persuade people to carry out violent acts, combining quantitative methods from corpus linguistics and close reading of texts via discourse analysis. They use strategies such as Arabic, romanisation, formal English, quotation, metaphor, dehumanisation, and collectivisation to create in- and out-groups and justify violence.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 244 pages
Publication date: 18 January 2024
Publisher: Cambridge University Press

This comprehensive book delves into a profound exploration of the linguistic strategies employed by violent jihadists to persuade individuals to engage in violent acts. Through a meticulous analysis of over two million words of texts produced by these extremist groups, the authors aim to identify and examine the diverse linguistic techniques used to propagate their ideologies. Employing a mixed methods approach, the authors combine quantitative methods derived from corpus linguistics, which enable the identification of frequent words and phrases, with close reading of texts through discourse analysis. This approach allows for a comprehensive analysis of language use across three distinct sets of texts: those advocating violence, those taking a hostile but non-violent stance, and those adopting a moderate perspective. By comparing language usage across these categories, the authors unveil the various linguistic strategies employed at different stages of radicalization.

Furthermore, the book delves into the intricate ways in which violent jihadists utilize language to create in- and out-groups, as well as to justify their violent actions. The authors explore the use of Arabic, romanization, formal English, quotation, metaphor, dehumanization, and collectivization as key tools in constructing these groups and rationalizing violence. Through their analysis, the authors shed light on the complex interplay between language, ideology, and social dynamics, providing valuable insights into the minds of those who perpetrate acts of terrorism.

This book is a crucial contribution to the field of counterterrorism, offering valuable insights into the language used by violent jihadists to recruit and motivate followers. By understanding the linguistic patterns and rhetorical devices employed by these extremist groups, policymakers, law enforcement agencies, and social workers can develop more effective strategies to counter their propaganda and prevent the spread of violent extremism. The book's rigorous research and comprehensive analysis make it a valuable resource for scholars, researchers, and anyone interested in understanding the complex dynamics of terrorism and counterterrorism.

ISBN-13: 9781108431378