PATTERNS OF VIOLENCE: RELIGION AND THE FRAMING OF DIFFERENCES

  • Lucien van Liere IIMO, Department of Theology Faculty of Humanities Utrecht University
Keywords: Religion-related Violence, Distance, Impersonality, Reciprocity, Identity

Abstract

This article seeks to understand three motives that are closely linked with violence: distance, impersonality and reciprocity. These three general human features contribute highly to the persistence of violence in different contexts. Analyzing religion-related violence means understanding the human preconditions for the appearance of violence. These preconditions are not religious per se, but can be inaugurated, conserved or enhanced by faiths or religions, resulting into a higher complexity of the violent conflict. The aim of this article is to show how this process works, how different and complex influences from local faiths to globalization(s) can change or even transform a conflict into religion-related violence. To do this, the three motives will be discussed to the background op de so-called Kuta bombing in 2002. Finally, this article will emphasize the notion that religion-related conflicts need a religious perspective to work towards a possible solution.
Published
2013-06-12
Section
Human Dignity and Violence (2008-2009)