LIT 3 - Kimmel Healing from Hate Flashcards
What is Kimmel’s central argument about violent extremism?
Kimmel argues that violent extremism is a deeply gendered phenomenon, with masculinity playing a crucial role in motivating young men to join these groups. He contends that existing research and media often neglect this gendered aspect, concentrating instead on factors like ideology or psychological issues.
Define Kimmel’s concept of a “gendered political psychology of extremism.”
This concept explains how patriarchal societies establish expectations for men to demonstrate their masculinity. When these expectations are threatened—for instance, due to economic instability or shifts in traditional gender roles—men may experience shame and humiliation. Joining extremist groups offers them a path to reclaiming their manhood and a sense of belonging within a rigid, hierarchical structure.
What is the significance of Matthias’s story in Kimmel’s argument?
Matthias, a former neo-Nazi from Germany, exemplifies the intricate relationship between personal history and societal influences that can shape extremist views. His initial attraction to the skinhead movement stemmed from a need for belonging and a perception of strength. His later exit demonstrates the importance of critical self-reflection, challenging conversations, and the support of organisations like EXIT in facilitating deradicalisation.
What are some of the “push” factors that lead young men to extremism, according to Kimmel?
Push” factors can include:
o Economic hardship and feelings of emasculation stemming from job losses or inability to fulfill traditional provider roles.
o Social isolation and bullying in school.
o Dysfunctional family environments, often marked by abuse, absent fathers, or emotionally distant parents.
What are some of the “pull” factors that attract young men to extremist groups, according to Kimmel?
“Pull” factors often involve:
o A sense of camaraderie and belonging, fulfilling a deep-seated need for connection and community.
o The allure of a clear, often rigid, ideology that simplifies complex issues and creates a sense of purpose and meaning.
o The promise of restoring a lost sense of masculinity and regaining control, often through violence or domination over others.
Why is it vital to consider gender in deradicalisation efforts? Kimmel
Kimmel argues that successful deradicalisation cannot simply focus on dismantling extremist ideologies. It must provide former members with alternative paths to achieving a sense of masculinity that isn’t based on violence or hate. This could involve:
o Supporting them in finding employment and building stable lives.
o Encouraging civic engagement and positive social connections.
o Helping them develop a sense of purpose and identity through constructive means.
What are some of the criticisms of existing deradicalisation programs? Kimmel
Kimmel critiques many programs for their failure to adequately acknowledge and address the crucial role of gender in both radicalisation and deradicalisation. He points to examples like the Summit against Violent Extremism, where, despite groundbreaking efforts to understand extremism, there was a lack of focus on gender dynamics. Similarly, he critiques Daniel Koehler’s work for mentioning gender only in the context of women and not exploring its role in men’s experiences.
What role does shame play in driving young men to violence, according to psychiatrist James Gilligan? Kimmel
James Gilligan, whose work Kimmel references, suggests that shame is a powerful motivator for violence. The act of violence, in this context, becomes a means for individuals to alleviate their feelings of shame and replace them with a sense of pride, preventing them from being overwhelmed by negative emotions.
What does Kimmel mean by “aggrieved entitlement”? Kimmel
This term describes the feeling of frustration and anger that arises when men believe they are entitled to certain privileges and rights but perceive these entitlements to be under threat or unattainable. This sense of being wronged fuels their resentment and can contribute to their susceptibility to extremist ideologies that offer a sense of justification for their anger.
What are some of the key factors in helping individuals disengage from extremist movements? Kimmel
Kimmel identifies various factors:
o Aging out: The thrill of extremism can diminish with age and maturity, leading some to naturally drift away from the movement.
o Life circumstances: Events like becoming a father or entering a committed relationship can lead individuals to reconsider their priorities and seek a more stable life.
o Disillusionment with ideology: Exposure to information that challenges their beliefs or witnessing hypocrisy within the group can lead to a shift in perspective.
o Negative group dynamics: Experiencing betrayal, hypocrisy, or a lack of support within the group can trigger disillusionment and a desire to leave.
What is the significance of the “Stolpersteine” art installation in Berlin? Kimmel
This installation consists of small brass plaques embedded in sidewalks throughout Germany. Each plaque commemorates a Jewish individual who lived at that address before being deported and murdered during the Holocaust. It serves as a poignant reminder of the individual lives lost and Germany’s efforts to confront its past.
What are some of the reasons Kimmel expresses apprehension about visiting Germany? Kimmel
Kimmel, being Jewish, anticipates feeling a complex mix of emotions: sadness, rage, and a sense of betrayal. He worries about encountering lingering anti-Semitism and questions his ability to remain objective as a researcher given the personal weight of the history.
