Coding "Ethnic Violence"

In “Ethnic and Nationalist Violence”, Brubaker and Laitin argue an imperative point regarding coding practices. Specifically, the authors argue that coding violence as “ethnic” can: (1) cause an overestimation of the incidence of ethnic violence and (2) cause a feedback effect, increasing the actual occurrence of ethnic violence.

The first point seems more obvious. If we code using the word “ethnic”, we assume there is a right way to measure violence. Obviously, this is much more complex and complicated. To code violence as “ethnic” requires statistical knowledge and research at the local level; most of us would agree on this point.

The second argument regarding coding is not as straightforward. If some sort of feedback effect occurs when we code (possibly miscode) something as “ethnic violence”, then how can be keep from instigating this effect? If coding violence as “ethnic” creates feedback and can lead to greater occurrence of violence, then how can we “accurately” code? Is it possible? Although Brubaker and Laitin do not outline any specific solutions, “Ethnic and Nationalist Violence” should spark some sort of creative thought regarding the daunting task of coding.

While miscoding can occur due to lack of knowledge regarding the situation at hand, it can also originate from the misuse of language. During the 1960’s, the semi-fixation with discussing ethnic identity became prominent in academic and journalistic writings. As time progressed, the phrase “ethnic violence” was thrown into academic journal articles, with no real analysis or explanation of the term. I argue that such nonchalant use the phrase “ethnic violence” also accounts for the feedback effect.

In general, language seems to be an unscientific mess. Nevertheless, as social scientists, the way in which we present our ideas and the language that we use greatly impact public perception, opinion, action and reaction. Coding violence as “ethnic” not only requires proper information, but it also requires an explanation of how the phrase “ethnic violence” is being used for the particular situation. In other words, an explanation of the ordinary language term “ethnic violence” should be given before any analysis is made regarding the particular violent conflict. While coding will continue to be messy and complex, this approach could decrease the occurrence of the feedback effect.