"The crowd is untruth. It is the place where the individual loses himself, and it is the place where the individual becomes a tool of the collective," - Gustave Le Bon
Bangladesh has a rich history of civil movements driven by socio-economic inequalities and political corruption. Key events such as the 1990 uprising, the 2013 Shahbagh movement, the 2018 road safety protests, and the recent unrest in 2024, all highlight how rapidly public sentiment can escalate into widespread unrest. These instances exemplify "riot behaviour," a root cause of mob violence seen in incidents like the Baitul Mukarram clash and the Khagrachhari arson attacks. Understanding the dynamics of riots is crucial in Bangladesh, where civil unrest has deep historical roots and significant implications for social cohesion.
Riot behaviour is a complex phenomenon influenced by various social, psychological, and political factors. Several key theories help explain why individuals engage in riots. Deindividuation, as described by Diener (1980), explains how individuals lose self-awareness in large groups, leading to impulsive and often violent actions. At the same time, Social Identity Theory, articulated by Tajfel and Turner (1979), posits that group affiliations can foster an "us versus them" mentality, escalating tensions between opposing factions.
The Sepoy Mutiny of 1857 serves as an example of collective unrest arising from shared grievances against the British East India Company. Discontent, fuelled by rumours about cartridges offending Hindu and Muslim beliefs, was intensified by confirmation bias causing individuals to overestimate the likelihood of conflict and engage in preemptive aggression. This incident illustrates how deep-rooted frustrations can ignite significant social upheaval and reshape history.
To mitigate the risks of riots, effective communication is of paramount importance. Establishing clear channels between the government and citizens can significantly alleviate tensions. Initiatives that promote community engagement, such as village/ward meetings and workshops, build trust and enable citizens to voice their concerns and participate in decision-making processes. Additionally, employing data-driven approaches can help monitor public sentiment and identify potential flashpoints for unrest.
By fostering a culture of understanding and collaboration, Bangladesh can pave the way for a more peaceful future. Ensuring that all citizens feel heard and valued will strengthen the democratic fabric of the nation. Through proactive measures and a commitment to inclusivity, Bangladesh can navigate challenges effectively and promote social cohesion.
Atif Ahnaf Chowdhury
Freshman
Department of Economics
Shahjalal University of Science and Technology
[email protected]
