Dialog for De-Radicalization in Postcolonial Europe

Abstract

Dialogical Self Theory will be deployed to deconstruct the discourse of cultural integration in postcolonial European nation-states in order to contribute to the de-radicalization of inter-ethnic relations. From the perspective of Dialogical Self Theory it may be argued that ethnic others are frequently locked up in I-prisons by an exclusive focus on their positions as citizens with a migration background who are not yet integrated into mainstream society. This unidimensional view of the Other circumvents the multiplicity of the self and neglects other positions that they may have in common with so-called ‘autochthonous’ citizens. Dialogical Self Theory offers an alternative approach that highlights not only cultural differences, but also partial but potent human commonalities. As a consequence, the focus may be shifted from differences towards dialog, which in the end will lead to de-radicalization.