This study explores the interrelation of discourse, identity and security. Anchored by an investigation of British counterterrorism and official discourse from 1968, it posits that social constructions of identity did not determine what actions were taken, but did shape the conditions of possibility within which such actions took place. The UK Counter-Terrorism and Security Act received Royal Assent in February 2015, with new measures recently proposed by Australia, Belgium, Kenya, Malaysia, New Zealand, and the United States. There is a need for continued research into the substance and legitimation of counterterrorism, considering its clear ethical and strategic implications. Given the ongoing situations of insecurity, and a persistent lack of clarity on what counterterrorism success would mean, it is essential that we investigate how security practices have come into existence so that we may be better equipped intellectually and in practice in our efforts countering terror.
