Studiare la radicalizzazione jihadista : problemi teorico-metodologici

This essay explores jihadist radicalization in Europe, with a particular focus on the methodological challenges involved in field research. Although sociology has developed various explanatory theoretical models (such as relative deprivation, network theories, re-socialization, and psycho-cognitive disorders), significant limitations remain. Field research predominantly qualitative and based on life histories and case studies fails to adequately address fundamental questions: who becomes radicalized, and why? The essay seeks to identify the principal methodological shortcomings and propose new analytical approaches for a line of research that, beyond its theoretical relevance, may inform public policy and decision-making. [Publisher's text]