The Matrix of Methodological Problems in the Study of Extreme Beliefs and Behaviors

Abstract Certain basic methodological problems have emerged from the research on terrorism and violent extremism that pose a challenge for all research into who radicalizes, how, and why. This chapter delineates four of these problems: the (1) normative, (2) primary data, (3) heterogeneity, and (4) specificity problems. In addition, it explains how they collectively set the conditions for progress in the production of knowledge in this field of study. While each problem has received some attention, this chapter argues that a more systematic approach to these challenges and their interactive effects is now required, and one that recognizes the pivotal role played by acquiring more and better first-person accounts from those previously or currently engaged in terrorism and violent extremism, if we wish to reduce the counterproductive influence of these challenges on research into the process of radicalization.