Relationship between symbolic violence and overt violence in hate incidents in South Africa

Abstract

The study reported here explored the relationship between symbolic violence and overt violence through the
descriptions of hate incidents experienced in South Africa. Data were collected during a five-year longitudinal
study conducted under the auspices of the Hate Crimes Working Group, using its Hate and Bias Monitoring Form
and an accompanying user guide. Thematic analysis was used to create categories, themes and interpretations
of hate incidents. Six primary themes emerged: i) the victim is less than human or like an animal; ii) humiliation
of the victim; iii) use of extreme overkill or destruction; iv) the victim is to blame; v) messages conveyed by hate
incidents; and vi) intentional unfair discrimination. These themes are discussed in relation to the existing body
of literature on symbolic violence. We argue that there is a mutually reinforcing relationship between symbolic
violence and overt violence in hate victimisation. Symbolic violence creates a society in which hate victimisation
of certain vulnerable groups becomes socially acceptable by constructing the circumstances in which overt
violence could take place. Overt violence occurs when symbolic violence is no longer effective in controlling
vulnerable groups, with offenders blatantly resorting to reinforce power differences between themselves and
their victims. Overt violence reinforces symbolic violence by sending a message to victims directly, as well as to
their larger communities, in terms of their undesirability, not belonging, and being third-class citizens. Effective
violence prevention has to take this relationship into account, especially as South Africa grapples with related
legislative and policy responses.