This work provides an exploration of the Northern Ireland conflict from the perspective of contemporary social sciences. It sets out a framework of critical approaches which could be used to understand the conflict in Northern Ireland. Adopting a multidisciplinary approach, the book draws on material from many sources including history, literature, cultural studies, media and communication studies, philosophy, art, politics, social policy and sociology and gender issues. This text seeks to redefine the conflict in terms of the history and literature of imperialism and colonialism. Essays focus on: Ulster unionism, Irish nationalism, British nationalism, strategy and policy, culture and gender and the peace process.