Key Terms 1
FREEBIE - Choose again
:)
The use of chemical agents, e.g., poison gas, in terrorist acts.
Chemical Terrorism
How can terrorism be defined and why does the specific definition matter so much?
Violence or intimidation to achieve political or ideological goals.
Hard to pinpoint exact definition.
Different organizations define it differently. Multiple definitions exist even within the same government.
Can take on many different forms.
Must there be violence?
Must there be intent of psychological impact?
Must there be a political purpose?
Must it be aimed at non-combatants?
The use of biological agents in terrorist acts.
Bioterrorism
The use of nuclear weapons or radioactive materials in terrorist acts.
Nuclear Terrorism
How are terrorist threats changing?
In the past, terrorism was involved with conventional weapons such as guns and bombs. (Still used today)
We have a greater fear of more dangerous weapons
- bioterrorism
-chemical terrorism
- nuclear terrorism
The rights of citizens to certain freedoms established in law, such as freedom to privacy, freedom of speech etc.
Civil Liberties
Term used by the US for its anti-terrorist activities after the September 11th attacks.
War on Terror
What is the difference between a terrorist and a freedom fighter?
Example?
"One persons terrorist is another person's freedom fighter"
Terrorism is a relative concept. A violent act can be seen as terrorism as one, but to others it is a necessary act to achieve liberty or protect ones religion or culture.
Individual perceptions and changing geopolitical realities affect how violent actions of groups and individuals are interpreted.
Ex. Nelson Mandela advocating to end the apartheid in South Africa.
Terrorism by a private group with the direct support of a nation state, e.g., providing a safe haven.
State-sponsored terrorism
The use of terrorist methods by a government to force obedience from the general population.
State Terrorism
How can governments fight terrorism? What is a potentially dangerous situation that may arise?
Counterterrorism - interfere with the planning or organization of terrorism
1) Network of spies (they may be undercover for months or years in dangerous conditions). Electronic surveillance of phones or emails.
2) Negotiations between perpetrators and government.
3) Assassination of terrorist leader. Military attack
4) Protect likely targets of attack. Adequate protection for nuclear powerplants, major water facilities.
Willing to suspend civil liberties?
Efforts made by government and international groups to interfere with the planning, organization, and execution of terrorist acts.
Counterterrorism
The use of violence or intimidation to achieve political or ideological goals.
Terrorism
Summarize the motivations for terrorism? Be sure to include 3 listed motivations
1) Rational Motivation
- considered other methods first but weren't effective
- resorted to asymmetric warfare (violence)
2) Psychological Motivation
- terrorists feel a sense of purpose/duty
- they are true believers in their cause
- don't consider they may be wrong in their beliefs or methods
- consider their opponents evil
3) Cultural Motivation
- May join terrorist groups out of fear that their values and beliefs are under threat
- defending their culture