Relational dynamics in violent extremist incitement communication: Language as bonds, obligations, and a catalyst for polarisation

Abstract

This study advances counter-extremism efforts by examining the mechanisms whereby incitement texts function as networks of bonds and obligations, shaping bonding dynamics within terrorism and polarisation contexts. It conceptualises incitement texts, in the Hallidayan sense, as functional semantic units, and incitement itself as a relational, intersubjective activity embedded in convergent and divergent bonds and pro-ingroup obligations shaped by contested ideologies, identities, and actions. Inciters strategically select discourse semantic structures to establish these bonds and obligations. Using systemic functional linguistics (SFL), and insights from communication accommodation theory (CAT), the study employs a relational-semiotic approach to analyse eight incitement texts by Osama bin Laden and Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi, identifying three key processes: communion, alienation, and coercion. Convergent bonds sustain communion and shared identities, while divergent bonds promote alienation and conflictual relationships and challenge intergroup rapport. Coercion extends these bonds, positioning violence as a moral obligation and act of care, vigilance and authentication of identity and belonging (i.e. deontic bonds) around which members of a group are invited to converge. The findings reveal how inciters manipulate attitudinal meanings—explicit, invoked, or provoked—to reinforce cohesion, intensify polarisation and urge violence. This process involves bond construction mechanisms (e.g. lexical metaphor, attribution to symbolic authority, intertextual allusions, iconisation, kinship terms, register-specific terms, and inclusive pronouns) and obligation-building tactics (e.g. recommendation, doctrinal authorisation, warnings, and commands). By embedding incitement within dynamic networks of bonds and moral justifications, the study illustrates how linguistic strategies prime attitudinal meanings to forge bonds, deepen polarisation, and coerce into violence. It also showcases how dangerous speech legitimises violence and strengthens identity fusion, offering critical insights for a communicative approach to counterterrorism that develops counter-narratives to reduce extremists’ persuasive appeal. This article also extends SFL work on bonding and CAT work on pre-emptive accommodation in asymmetrical, ideological communication.