Missing Links: an Examination of Collective Identity and Ritual in the American Militia Movement

Abstract

Qualitative Analysis of Militia Forum Members' internet postings over the course of one month in a search for empirical evidence support a new theory of collective identity construction, rituals, and behavior. The theory expands Niel Smelser's theory of collective behavior by adding a mythic/ideological identity system that includes the denial, negation, and affirmation of identities. The socialization into this identity system and its maintenance were investigated using Structural Ritualization Theory. Support was found for all aspects of new theory. Evidence indicated the presence of the mythic/ideological systems and its DNA components Evidence was also found indicating the existence of Symbolic Ritual Practices that serve to socialize members into the identity and maintain it