Staub (2012) identifies multiple instigators in group conflict and genocide. First is difficult life conditions which includes “severe economic problems, great political disorganization with a society, or great, rapid social changes and their combinations” (Staub, 2012, p.3). Difficult life conditions disrupt and exacerbate connections with others, self-identity, and safety and security. The social impacts of this may lead to a desperate attempt to identify with a group. Often these groups create a bond and identity through devaluing other groups and scapegoating others. This can give rise to ideologies which aim for changes which will improve the difficult life conditions, but do so in ostracizing and blaming others. While it is possible for these group initiatives to be positive and constructive, most often this pattern can elevate negatively, leading to mass violence against the “other.”
Another instigator is the “[c]onflict between groups, especially identity groups” (Staub, 2012, p.3). Disagreement and devaluing of other groups can lead them into conflict with one another, and as they become increasingly violent, this can spur on acts of genocide. Basic needs and resources can be a part of this, but the devaluation of other groups is still often combined with this. Ideologies of superiority justify actions against another group. Additionally, groups that have been devalued, are different from the mainstream, or are less privileged may begin demanding equal rights which can give rise to violent action. In the past, territorial conquest and colonization have been accomplished through violent means, including genocide. When group conflict escalates to war, genocide becomes further justified by one of the groups towards the other.
Reference
Staub, E. (2012). The roots and prevention of genocide and related mass violence. Chapter 2 in Anstey, M., Meerts, P. & Zartman, I. W. (eds). The slippery slope to genocide: Reducing identity conflicts and preventing mass murder. New York: Oxford University Press.