Loud, Proud, and Extreme: Understanding the Group Processes of Far-Right Groups

Dear colleagues,

Perceived threats remain a principal driver sustaining far-right groups. Dynamics internal to far-right groups and external dynamics between far-right groups and/or rival groups (e.g., Antifa) remains understudied. Much of the conventional literature on the far-right remains focused on either the individual (micro-level) or on ideology (macro-level), ignoring the social processes of the group (meso-level). Additionally, the ubiquity of digital technology, particularly social media platforms, has greatly influenced how far-right groups operate today. Online violence, whether threats, taunts, or posting of violent acts that took place, is much less understood. This knowledge gap includes the link between the online activities of far-right groups and how it can manifest into real-world action. This issue will examine the diverse nature of far-right groups, which include anti-government “militias” (e.g., Oath Keepers), accelerationists (e.g., Boogaloo Bois), neo-Nazi terror groups (e.g., Atomwaffen Division, The Base), alt-right gangs (e.g., Proud Boys), and sovereign citizen collectives, with the goal of better understanding the growing complexities of far-right to better inform public policy solutions. Given the dynamic nature of far-right groups today, this Special Issue encourages empirical research (quantitative, qualitative, or mixed-methods) with multi-/interdisciplinary perspectives from around the world that highlights cutting-edge approaches to examining far-right groups. Papers may be theoretical and/or empirical in nature. All submissions will be considered; however, primary consideration will be given to manuscripts that:

• Investigate the relationship between online activity and real-world violence;
• Examine the efficacy of deradicalization/desistance programs;
• Engage in cross comparisons of far-right groups by either location or type;
• Take innovative approaches to advancing our understanding of far-right violence.

Dr. Matthew Valasik
Dr. Shannon E. Reid
Guest Editors

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• far-right
• white power
• right-wing extremism
• white supremacy
• violence
• nativism
• nationalism
• intervention
• public policy