Theorising Resistance Formations: Reverse Discourses, Spatial Resistance and Networked Dissent

ABSTRACT By merging the concepts of “formations” and “resistance”, this paper presents a conceptual map of how to “read” resistance movements, which are composed of individual resistance and collective action. I suggest that reverse discourse could be interpreted as one specific resistance formation, by denoting how subjects (re)articulate and re-present themselves and the figure they are expected to assume; it is a negotiation of defined and delimited identities positions. The framing of reverse discourse as a particular resistance formation, with its specific deposits, makes sense when contrasting it with other movements of resistance. By comparing different formations of resistance – such as reverse discourse, spatial resistance or networked dissent – this paper displays how and why specific mobilisations unfold; both particular and more universal features come to light when contrasting the topographies of different resistance formations.