ABSTRACT
This chapter explores the relationship between the method of discourse analysis, the Foucauldian approach to governance and critical realist arguments about meta-theory. But by briefly exploring the method of critical discourse analysis (CDA) it does attempt to look at discursive devices which frame the discussion of counter-terrorism in their wider social context. The UK government approach to terrorism is divided into four strategies: pursue, prevent, protect and prepare. Indeed, the author argues that while governmentality helps us understand counter-terrorism strategy, a realist approach that highlights underlying social relations helps us better understand governmentality. A very brief summary of what governmentality is would emphasise how it aims to govern from a distance by use of an array of liberal techniques. Herring and Stokes have suggested historical materialism as the best means to analyse the relationship between dominant discourses, counter-terrorism practices and the class and social interests within capitalist society.
