Troubles of the Past?: History, Identity and Collective Memory in Northern Ireland

This collection explores the role of memory and recalling the past in shaping contemporary politics and the future direction of Northern Irish society, drawing on expert opinions and viewpoints to contribute to existing knowledge.

Format: Hardback
Length: 264 pages
Publication date: 31 January 2023
Publisher: Manchester University Press

This comprehensive collection brings together esteemed academics and practitioners to explore the ever-growing significance of memory and the act of recollecting the past in shaping contemporary politics and the future trajectory of Northern Irish society. Through a multidisciplinary approach, it delves into the intricate processes of constructing, reconstructing, interpreting, and commemorating narratives of the past, while also examining how these narratives are harnessed and mobilized to exert political and social influence in the present. Drawing upon a wealth of expert opinions and diverse viewpoints, the book significantly contributes to the existing body of knowledge surrounding the debates surrounding memory and its role in Northern Irish society.

The book's central theme revolves around the examination of how historical narratives are constructed, reconstructed, understood, and commemorated. It seeks to understand the mechanisms through which these narratives shape public perceptions, influence political discourse, and shape societal attitudes and behaviors. By exploring the ways in which different actors, such as politicians, activists, media outlets, and ordinary individuals, engage with and interpret historical events, the book sheds light on the complex dynamics that underpin the construction of collective memory and its impact on contemporary politics.

One of the key aspects of the book is its comparative analysis of memory practices across different regions and contexts. It examines how memory is shaped by factors such as historical events, cultural traditions, political ideologies, and social movements. By comparing the experiences of different societies, the book highlights the similarities and differences in the ways in which memory is used to construct identities, promote social cohesion, and navigate conflicts. This comparative approach provides valuable insights into the broader global landscape of memory politics and its implications for understanding the complex dynamics of contemporary societies.

In addition to its theoretical and comparative dimensions, the book also includes a series of case studies that provide concrete examples of how memory is used in Northern Irish society. These case studies cover a wide range of topics, including the Troubles, the Good Friday Agreement, and the legacy of colonialism and sectarianism. By examining these case studies in depth, the book offers a rich and nuanced understanding of the ways in which memory is intertwined with political, social, and cultural processes in Northern Ireland.

The book draws upon a wide range of expert opinions and viewpoints to enrich its analysis. Contributors include historians, sociologists, psychologists, political scientists, and activists, who bring their unique perspectives and experiences to the table. Their insights and perspectives contribute significantly to the book's overall understanding of the role of memory in shaping contemporary politics and society.

Overall, this collection provides a comprehensive and insightful examination of the increasingly central role that memory and recalling the past plays in determining contemporary politics and the future direction of Northern Irish society. By exploring the complex processes of constructing, reconstructing, interpreting, and commemorating narratives of the past, the book offers valuable insights into the ways in which memory is used to shape public perceptions, influence political discourse, and shape societal attitudes and behaviors. It is a must-read for scholars, researchers, policymakers, and anyone interested in understanding the complex dynamics of contemporary societies and the role of memory in shaping their futures.

Weight: 456g
Dimension: 223 x 147 x 22 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781526154194