ABSTRACT
This chapter explores the conceptual framework of the confessional to understand the pastoral dimensions inherent in de-radicalisation interventions in the UK. As an ordering power of government, pastoral power not only preoccupies itself with the welfare of individuals within its territory, but more importantly, with their subjectivity. De-radicalisation must be viewed through the lens of the confessional; the existence of countless experts involved in the identification process, as well as the implementation of intervention; the shepherd/flock relationship assumed by the imam/mentor/experts on one side and the radical/vulnerable/extremist individual on the other; and the stated objectives of experts to have the radical/vulnerable/extremist individual transformed and to ultimately have the individual re-integrated back with the whole flock, or mainstream society. In any case, seen through the lens of confessional technology, the 'Islamist' should be seen as a biographical and confessional account of Ed's transformation from 'radical' to liberal reformed person.
