Collective memories and present-day intergroup relations: Introduction to the Special Thematic Section

Ana Figueiredo,Laurent Licata,Jonas Rees,Borja Martinovic

doi:10.5964/jspp.v5i2.895

Abstract

This special thematic section aims to bring together current research on the connections between collective memories – or representations of history – and present-day intergroup relations. Drawing from a multitude of geographical and historical contexts as well as different methodologies, we bring forth ten articles focusing on distinct aspects of the relations between representations of the past and present day intergroup dynamics. The topics covered in these articles focus on one or more of the four research lines identified within this field: 1) the antecedents of collective memories; 2) the contents and structure of collective memories; 3) the official or institutional transmission of collective memories; and 4) distinct socio-psychological correlates of collective memories in present-day societies. Together, the contributions in this special thematic section showcase current directions of research within the field and highlight the need to consider the role of representations of the past for understanding present day instances of intergroup conflict or harmony. We discuss the need for more interdisciplinary work in this field, as well as more applied research in the future.

Highlights

This special thematic section aims to bring together current research on the connections between collective memories – or representations of history – and present-day intergroup relations
We can derive at least two central roles that collective memories have for present-day intergroup relations: These memories usually serve the purpose of mobilizing or giving direction to social identities (“we need to behave in a certain way because of our past”), while they serve as content that provides social identities with meaning (“we are who we are because of our past”, e.g., Licata & Mercy, 2015; Liu & Hilton, 2005)
There is a bidirectional relation between collective memories and present-day intergroup relations: in one direction, social identities charge historical events with significance and relevance, making historical events and the associated collective memories meaningful for group members; in the other direction, collective memories help mobilize social identities to achieve or help fulfill the needs and goals of present-day group members

Summary

Introduction

This special thematic section aims to bring together current research on the connections between collective memories – or representations of history – and present-day intergroup relations. The proliferation of articles and research projects studying the relationship between collective memories and current intergroup relations attests to the relevance and societal impact that the past can have on the present.

Results

Conclusion