Waubonsee Community College

The faces of terrorism, social and psychological dimensions, Neil J. Smelser

eng

Includes bibliographical references (pages 253-272) and index

index present

non fiction

The faces of terrorism

bibliography

82772623

Neil J. Smelser

"Neil Smelser begins by tackling the fundamental problem of defining what exactly terrorism is. He shows why a precise definition has eluded us until now, and he proposes one that takes into account the full complexities of this unconventional and politically charged brand of violence. He explores the root causes and conditions of terrorism, and examines the ideologies that inspire and fuel it throughout the world. Smelser looks closely at the terrorists themselves - their recruitment, their motivations, the groups they form, their intended audiences, and their uses of the media in pursuing their agendas. He studies the target societies as well, unraveling the complicated social and psychological impacts of having to cope with the ever-present threat of a terrorist strike - and responding when one occurs. He explains what it means to live under constant threat of terrorism, and addresses the thorny domestic and foreign policy challenges this poses. Throughout, Smelser draws from the latest findings in sociology, political science, anthropology, economics, psychology, psychiatry, and history."--Jacket

Science essentials

social and psychological dimensions

The paradoxes of terrorism -- Conditions and causes of terrorism -- Ideological bases of terrorist behavior -- Motivation, social origins, recruitment, groups, audiences, and the media in the terrorism process -- Anticipating, experiencing, and responding to terrorist attacks -- Discouraging terrorism -- The long-term international context of terrorism -- Appendix: The infernal problems of definition and designation