Atrocity in Identity: Dynamics of Extreme Groups
Xiaoli Guo
Florida State University
Abstract:
I formalize how an identity of ethnicity, religion or other attributes is manipulated to in uence intra- and intergroup relations. As the extremist groups committed atrocities in the name of Islam, Muslim backlash soared globally. Aggravated discrimination against Muslims slows down their pace of assimilation, which in turn may aid the growth of the extremist groups. The model suggests that the public's negative perceptions of the Islam identity and the Muslim community's instinct to preserve their identity in the face of threats are essential for successful provocation. Exclusion of Muslims most often exacerbates the situation. Surprisingly, a less extreme or a more heterogeneous Muslim community is conducive to the extremists' recruitment by provocation. Provocation efficacy decreases in the Muslims' productivity and increases in their consumption, and usually has an indeterminate relation with their group size.
Discussants:
Brenton Kenkel (Vanderbilt University)
Scott Tyson (University of Michigan)
Kathleen Gallagher Cunningham (University of Maryland)
OPSC Coordinator:
Emily Hencken Ritter (University of California Merced)
Graduate Assistant:
Peter D. Carey II (University of California Merced)
