Andrew Sanders - The IRA and The Troubles, the Nature of War, and Examining Historical Patterns

In this conversation, I sit down with Andrew Sanders to explore the cyclical nature of conflict and war, examining historical patterns, the role of security as a resource, and the impact of media on public perception. It delves into the radicalization of individuals, particularly in the context of the IRA, and discusses the implications of internment and inequality in Irish Republicanism. The discussion also touches on necropolitics and the manipulation of state power, drawing parallels to contemporary issues. This conversation delves into the complexities of the Northern Ireland conflict, exploring the fragmentation of paramilitary groups, the justifications for violence, and the impact of identity and diaspora support on Irish Republicanism. We reflect on the historical context of the Troubles, the perceptions of violence, and the lasting impressions from interviews with individuals on both sides of the conflict.

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Key takeaways

• War is a recurring theme in history, often driven by underlying tensions.
• Security is often used as a justification for military actions.
• Media plays a crucial role in shaping public perception of violence.
• Radicalization can stem from feelings of injustice and inequality.
• Internment has historically led to increased violence and radicalization.
• Socialism has been a significant aspect of Irish Republicanism.
• The dynamics of violence can change over time, affecting recruitment.
• Power vacuums within organizations can lead to chaos and infighting.
• Necropolitics highlights the state's role in determining who lives and dies.
• Contemporary issues often echo historical conflicts. The fragmentation of paramilitary groups led to increased violence among themselves.
• Justifiable violence is a complex issue, often defined by the state.
• The Troubles can be difficult to classify as a war due to differing perceptions.
• Identity plays a crucial role in the conflict, influencing individuals' actions and beliefs.
• Diaspora support significantly impacted Irish Republicanism, especially in the US.
• Understanding the scale of violence in the Troubles helps contextualize its impact.
• Many people today lack a comprehensive understanding of the Troubles.
• Regret and responsibility are felt differently on each side of the conflict.
• Radicalization often becomes intertwined with personal identity.
• The state’s role in defining violence shapes individuals' perceptions of their actions.

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Some stories just hit different. Welcome to The Dark Finds Podcast, hosted by writer, true crime creator, and psychology enthusiast Gary Colton. Each episode takes you deep into the world of those who’ve lived through — or created — something extraordinary. From fighters, musicians, and war veterans to cult survivors, ex-cons, psychologists, and entrepreneurs, we explore the lives of people who exist on the edge of the norm. Through honest, often raw conversations, we uncover their journeys, insights, struggles, and what drives them.

At its core, Dark Finds is fueled by one obsession: understanding human behavior in all its forms.