Divide et Impera: Vertical and Horizontal Dimensions of British Imperialism

2016/07/02 by Ilia Xypolia · 1 citation
Social Sciences · #Philippine History and Culture #Religion and Society Interactions #Weber, Simmel, Sociological Theory

paper · doi:10.1080/03017605.2016.1199629

openalex publication_date 2016/07/02 · openalex created_date 2025/10/10 · openalex updated_date 2026/07/29

Abstract

This paper shifts the axis of analysis of imperialism and argues that the classic ‘divide and rule’ policy was implemented in a horizontal and vertical dimension simultaneously. By theorising Georg Simmel’s classic triadic configurations, this paper explores whether in the British imperial strategy a divisive mechanism was set up within which inter-communal problems were exploited or an advantage was gained simply by being a tertius gaudens, i.e. a rejoicing third. This paper argues that the British Empire deliberately introduced a ‘divide and rule’ structure in order to gain an advantage in existing or emerging hostilities between the local communities.

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• Imperialism [wikipedia]

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