Date of Award
4-1997
Degree Name
Master of Arts
Department
Sociology
First Advisor
Dr. Douglas Davidson
Second Advisor
Dr. Earl Washington
Third Advisor
Dr. Lewis Walker
Access Setting
Masters Thesis-Open Access
Abstract
This study is a metatheoretical analysis of the white extremist movement in the United States. Five separate major and several smaller white extremist organizations were examined with respect to updated information as to the organizational levels, membership profiles and activities of: (1) the Ku Klux Klan, (2) the Militia, (3) Skinheads, (4) Aryan Nations, (5) the Neo-Nazi and (6) other organizations.
Several theories developed by foundational, developmental and contemporary sociologists were analyzed for their individual concepts. Pertinent and significant concepts were noted as being applicable to a theory of white extremism. Specific examples of the concepts' usage within the extremist organizations were cited to validate their inclusion. A metatheoretical approach was utilized to specify which of these concepts were considered mandatory for an evolving theory of white extremist behavior.
A significant perspective emphasizing a newly formed sense of collective consciousness among the groups was summarized.
Recommended Citation
VanWeelde, Suzanne, "The White Extremist Movement: A Metatheoretical Analysis" (1997). Masters Theses. 4167.
https://scholarworks.wmich.edu/masters_theses/4167