The Radical's Journey

This volume offers a crucial examination of right-wing extremism, supported by detailed empirical analyses of right-wing militants' experiences within and outside their organizations. The authors delve deeply into the motivations that prompt initial membership in these groups, the elements
that make membership appealing, and the factors that ultimately cause members to leave. Interpreting the present empirical data within their psychological theory of radicalization, the authors determine the commonalities and differences between instances of radicalization and derive policy-relevant
implications to combat right-wing extremism. In a turbulent global environment where this strain of extremist ideology has gained more mainstream popularity, this book is a critical and timely addition to scholarship on radicalization by leading experts in the field.

This volume offers a crucial examination of right-wing extremism, supported by detailed empirical analyses of right-wing militants' experiences within and outside their organizations. The authors delve deeply into the motivations that prompt initial membership in these groups, the elements that make membership appealing, and the factors that ultimately cause members to leave. Interpreting the present empirical data within their psychological theory of radicalization, the authors determine the commonalities and differences between instances of radicalization and derive policy-relevant implications to combat right-wing extremism. In a turbulent global environment where this strain of extremist ideology has gained more mainstream popularity, this book is a critical and timely addition to scholarship on radicalization by leading experts in the field.

"This is the first systematic study of the 'lifecycle' of German Neo-Nazis, based on extensive interviews with former and current far-right extremists. The way that Kruglanski and his team bring together cutting-edge theory, a deep understanding of the roots of contemporary German far-right
extremism, and empirical data is unparalleled. If you read only one book on the German far-right in English, make it this one!"

-- Peter Neumann, founding director, International Centre for the Study of Radicalisation, King's College London

"Insightful, timely, and written with authority, The Radical's Journey is filled with rare insights into the psychology behind today's rise of White Nationalism that put it into perspective."

-- Christian Picciolini, former extremist and author of White American Youth

"This book sets the new standard for evidence-based terrorism research! Based on interviews with former Neo-Nazis, it shows how they joined, stayed, and eventually left this movement. A must read for all people interested in radical movements!"

-- Marc Sageman, author of Turning to Political Violence, Understanding Terror Networks, and Leaderless Jihad

"An important volume for policymakers and practitioners. Based on semi-structured interviews with 43 former German right-wing extremists, this book offers comprehensive insight into the three phases of radicalization, extremist activities, and the disengagement of German right-wing extremists. We
now have an in-depth psychological analysis of the extremist's journey into extremism and back to mainstream society."

-- Preben Bertelsen, Professor of Societal and Personality Psychology, Aarhus University

"In this book, Kruglanski, Webber, and Koehler once again show a depth of knowledge and sensitivity to the psychology of violent extremism. The book offers a new perspective on radicalization and deradicalization, presenting a solid theoretical model with real life story illustrations of German
formerNeo-Nazis. A topic that is taboo for many is broken down into terms of basic human needs, motives, and relations, making it approachable and laying the foundations of effective prevention and intervention programs. A must-read for researchers, practitioners, teachers, social workers, and for
anyone searching for insights on how to help find a way out of violence and hate."

-- Robert �rell, Director, Exit Sweden, and co-chair, RAN Exit, the EU Commission