Chapter 10

The Mind of a Terrorist: Why do They Hate Summary and Overview | This chapter introduces section III which provides more detailed information on the nature of manmade and natural threats facing the homeland security enterprise. This chapter is significantly updated from the first edition, reflecting the current debates over the nature of terrorist activity. For many people, terrorism is easier to recognize than define, yet is definition carries crucial policy implications. However, perhaps even more important is an understanding of the groups and individuals who carry out terrorism. By studying what groups choose terrorism and why, as well as the factors that cause individuals to become terrorists, we can easily devise and execute strategies to reduce the threat. This chapter reviews the various definitions of terrorism and considers the debate over the origins and goals of transnational terrorist activities.Terrorism is politically motivated violence carried out in most cases by sane and intelligence operatives. Event the increase in suicide and mass-casualty terrorist attacks can best be understood as tactics that reflect reasoned, if immoral, strategic decisions by organized groups. In order to alter the underlying circumstances that create and enable terrorism, the United States must understand the organizing principles and motivation of the specific groups that intend to do the harm. This chapter provides an overview of the key elements of terrorism and the controversies surrounding understanding the practice.Terrorism is politically motivated violence carried out in most cases by sane and intelligence operatives. Event the increase in suicide and mass-casualty terrorist attacks can best be understood as tactics that reflect reasoned, if immoral, strategic decisions by organized groups. In order to alter the underlying circumstances that create and enable terrorism, the United States must understand the organizing principles and motivation of the specific groups that intend to do the harm. This chapter provides an overview of the key elements of terrorism and the controversies surrounding understanding the practice. | Objective 1Define the major elements of terrorism | There is no universal definition of terrorism. It is generally characterizes as activities by sub-or transnational groups that are directed against noncombatants; are aimed at coercing governments or populations; are motivated by political, ideological, or religious beliefs; and are planned to gain maximum publicity. | Objective 2List significant categories of terrorist groups | Terrorist groups can be classified by their objectives. Four main categories are (1) ideological, (2) nationalist, (3) religious, and (4) issue-oriented. | Objective 3Discuss forces that prompt individuals to join terrorist groups | There is little evidence that poverty, per se, breeds terrorism. Terrorism is rooted in “perceived” deprivation resulting from an array of social, political, economic, and cultural factors. Terrorism is most prevalent in states that are lacking a strong civil society. | Objective 4 Clarify the factors behind suicide terrorism | Suicide terrorism is not a manifestation of Islamic religiosity or an irrational act by deranged individuals. Factors that can affect the use of suicide bombings include effective recruiting and indoctrination, and suitability of tactics. There is a good deal of controversy surrounding this issue. | Objective 5Explain factors that have increased the willingness of terrorist to inflict mass causalities | In part, terrorist ideologies may seek to not just influence but to punish governments and populations. Some terrorist groups recognize the need to inflict ever-greater amounts of casualty and destruction to influence public opinion. Materials and knowledge for fielding weapons of mass destruction are becoming more accessible. | Defining Terrorism | Debated for decades by diplomats and