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August 19, 2026Cultural Sociology

Genocidal Enjoyment: On the Weaponization of Joyful Cruelty and “Dark Fun” during Israel’s Genocide in Gaza

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Authors

RPRaúl PérezCTCharles Thorpe

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Overview

Qualitative case study examines expressions of joyful cruelty during the Gaza conflict, highlighting the mobilization of emotion work and cultural narratives in warfare.

Key Points

  • The study aims to conceptualize 'genocidal enjoyment' by investigating how digital media displays of joyful cruelty and sadistic amusement function within wartime discourse and cultural sociology.
  • Theoretical sampling of illustrative cases comprising social media imagery, video posts, and public communications by IDF soldiers and online supporters after October 7.
  • Qualitative content analysis of digital artifacts alongside corresponding mainstream media coverage and political rhetoric.
  • Identifies the weaponization of 'dark fun' and celebratory cruelty as a mechanism for reinforcing group cohesion and rationalizing military violence.
  • Demonstrates how shared digital imagery functions as emotion work and meaning-making, mobilizing public support while simultaneously serving as documentation for international condemnation.

Cite This Study

Pérez et al. (2026) studied this question.

synapsesocial.com/papers/6a85639d03308d306e2d6e17https://doi.org/10.1177/17499755261468856
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Also Consider

Synapse has enriched 2 closely related papers on similar clinical questions. Consider them for comparative context:

  1. 1Permission to Narrate1984 · 263 citations
  2. 2Cultural Violence1990 · 1,970 citations