NCJ Number
204222
Date Published
2003
Length
8 pages
Annotation
This paper, which provides an introduction to the other papers in this publication, defines terrorism, discusses its distinctive features, suggests the components of a counter-terrorism strategy, and summarizes the themes of the other papers.
Abstract
"Terrorism" is "a form of deliberate and systematic violence by nongovernment organizations towards innocents with intent to instill fear or to otherwise coerce or intimidate the larger victim group of which the innocents are members. The direct targets of terrorism are not the final targets. The political, religious, and/or other ideologies of perpetrators and victims provide the motive for the attack, as well as the reaction to the violence, and define what is "good" or "bad" terrorism. Most likely, the perpetrators are nonmilitary who are using terrorism to effect some desired end and do not have the means to accomplish their purposes by directly engaging the military forces of a nation." This paper advocates the position that no cause, history of oppression, or even previous violence against the perpetrators, or any other circumstance, justifies terrorism unless the possible perpetrator is directly in danger of being harmed. It is always illegitimate, always criminal, and always murder when people are killed except in the unique circumstances of avoiding or attempting to evade or escape violence from others. The author advises that terrorism can be effectively countered by a combination of ensuring moral clarity and superior technology and strategies, with the caveat that even superb technology and the soundest strategies can never defeat terrorism by themselves. In the event of a terrorist attack, counteraction should be avoided until knowledge relative to the terrorist act and the perpetrators is understood; otherwise, the wrong people and nations may be targeted and unjustly attacked. Interventions that respond violently to violent events lead to self-generating violent interlocks. Reframing and redirecting violent mind sets by all people and nations requires transcending violence interlocks to cycles of affection and gratitude. Training in altruism and advocacy of others of our perceived adversaries should start in childhood and proceed through the life-course of each individual. Nonviolent efforts have led to remarkable and durable changes. The mindset to cultivate in all cultures and nations is that no one religion is superior to another. We are all one family created by one Deity with the responsibility to enrich one another's lives on the same small planet. The United States is in an ideal position to cultivate and promulgate this moral stance. 8 references