David Brannan PhD Thesis - University of St Andrews

dangerous ideology of hate with no regard for the nuances in theology or social processes
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which this broad category encompasses. This is a failure not only within the study of Identity
theology, but a wider failure within the ‘terrorism studies’ discipline at large. 90 This
convenient position does not, nor is it apparently intended to, move groups categorized by
particular beliefs toward a peaceful understanding of each position. This is a shortfall, which
is unfortunate and unnecessary in many cases. This dissertation is in part an attempt to
provide those who would move beyond demonization and out-group villainization—a trait
found among both Identity and non-Identity believers—to a foundation upon which to build
for future peaceful relations. Furthermore, the dissertation seeks to make accurate first
source information available to those charged with the difficult task of law enforcement and
protection of innocent civilians from groups involved in illegal violence. Currently this type
of information is not available. This does not mean that the research presented has been
approached from a crisis management perspective. Rather, that where legitimate enforcement
issues are at stake, legitimate scholarly information should be made available, rather than the
widespread agenda driven or severely biased presentations. 91
Outline
Following this introduction and outline, the work turns to a critical analysis of the
relevant literature. This analysis questions the lack of depth in the extant research related to
this topic. Several academic works which have either served the discipline as foundational to
its understanding of Identity theology, or have made or attempted to make a significant
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90 For an in depth analysis of this failure see, Brannan et. al., Studies in Conflict and Terrorisms, pp.
91 The danger of approaching research from a “crisis management” position is discussed in detail in
chapter three, which explains the analytical framework.