A waffle-shaped model for how realistic dimensions of the Belgian conflict structure collective memories and stereotypes

• Published in: Memory studies Vol. 5; no. 1; pp. 16 - 31
• Main Authors: Klein, Olivier, Licata, Laurent, Van der Linden, Nicolas, Mercy, Aurélie, Luminet, Olivier
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: London, England SAGE Publications 01.01.2012
• Subjects: collective memory; stereotypes; intergroup relations; social identity; social justice; moral judgment
• ISSN: 1750-6980; 1750-6999
• DOI: 10.1177/1750698011424028

Belgium has a long-standing history of conflicts between Flemings and French speakers. We posit that the content of the collective memories associated with each group are organized around two objective dimensions: (1) linguistic policy and (2) financial and political autonomy. A model is proposed that predicts that different justice principles will be applied by each community regarding the distribution of specific resources depending upon which dimension of the conflict is salient and their group membership. Respect or violation of these principles predicts stereotype content. Collective memories can be used to justify the in-group’s justice principles and to present such stereotypes as anchored in the past. We conclude by drawing general implications of the model for the study of the role collective memories play in intergroup conflicts.