The absence of extremism is not automatically evidence of ‘cohesive’ communities. Recent research identifies possibilities for intervention and political change which involves both reframing the problem of ‘cohesion’ and expanding its scope. For a number of years there has been growing interest in the disadvantage experienced by ‘poor white British’ communities. Over a decade since […]
Why embracing language diversity is a key to community cohesion
As part of our new publication ‘OnCohesion’ read Professor Yaron Matras’ blog which focuses on language diversity and why he believes it is key to social cohesion Language is an emblem of who we are. It is the carrier of our heritage and one of the ways of identifying what we mean by ‘communities’. Community […]
Young people are the solution, not the problem
In order for communities to be strong enough to tackle extremism, the idea of community cohesion needs to extend beyond the current narrow boundaries The labelling of youth as ‘risky’ typically creates conflict between young people and authorities (particularly the police) and generates intergenerational tension as the young person kicks out against the label. The […]
The pathway to violent extremism: is socio-economic inequality, or our perception of it, to blame?
As part of our new publication ‘OnCohesion’ read Hilary Pilkington’s blog which focuses on violent extremism and what drivers may lead to it. Accurate information about suicide bomber Salman Abedi’s plans, it appears, had been received but its significance was not identified soon enough. Radicalisation research is a relatively new field of study that seeks […]
Prevent in schools and colleges: why a new approach is needed
As part of our new publication ‘OnCohesion’ read Bob Hindle’s blog which focuses on the counter-terrorism Prevent Strategy in schools and colleges. Schools and colleges provide environments for debate and meeting points and a rising proportion of young people from mixed race backgrounds suggests we have more in common than what makes us different. Is […]
Could religious tradition be the antidote to fundamentalism?
As part of our publication ‘OnCohesion’ read Professor Alexander Samely’s blog which focuses on religious tradition. Many scripture-based religious traditions embrace multiple meanings in their sacred texts, so religiously motivated respect for one’s tradition can provide a basis for the acceptance of difference. Today’s community leaders often have less inclusive views than their ancient or […]
Youth engagement: can we afford not to invest in what works?
As part of a preview to our new publication ‘OnCohesion’ read Dr James Laurence’s blog from the collection which examines how effective youth social and civic engagement schemes can be in cultivating and strengthening social cohesion, especially among young people. Youth social and civic participation schemes create positive social mixing where young people are working […]
Protecting against terror: are we dividing our cities?
As part of a preview to our new publication ‘OnCohesion’ Martin Coward examines the new wave of terrorist violence in Europe that focuses on crowded public spaces and low-tech weapons – and asks if countermeasures aimed at protecting us are generating physical and social barriers to community and cohesion? Examples of physical countermeasures include the […]