New Article: On Defining Jihadism

I have a new article out at Gatestone Institute on the issue of defining ‘jihadism’, a term that is often not used precisely. Put simply, through the lens of social identity theory, it is possible to formulate a concise definition that makes no comment on whether the worldview of jihadism constitutes a ‘correct’ interpretation of Islam. In contrast, suggestions like dubbing jihadists ‘Khawarij’ on the basis of not offending Muslims are unhelpful. It is in my view important to formulate a concise definition so as to determine who is or is not a jihadist. Observe how the terms ‘jihadism’ and ‘jihadist’ are used in the context of the current Israel-Gaza war, for instance.

You can read the article here.