NCJ Number
218988
Editor(s)
Gus Martin
Date Published
2004
Length
302 pages
Annotation
This book provides a collection of articles on policy issues that have emerged since the United States terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, and relevant events that preceded the attacks.
Abstract
The purpose of this book is to stimulate critical discussion about the attributes of the new era of terrorism and the policy options available to societies and governments in this era. The book is organized into three thematic parts. Part I frames the threat posed by the new terrorist environment. It establishes a contextual framework for understanding modern terrorism and examines the definitional debate which has existed since the Cold War. Lastly, it discusses the causes of terrorist behavior among three cultural and demographic groups. Part II assesses several features of the new era of terrorism. Specifically, it reviews the threat from weapons of mass destruction and asymmetrical methods. It outlines the problem of religious motivations for terrorist violence and discusses the new future of terrorism from several perspectives. Part III raises the question of counterterrorist options and cooperation in the new era. Problems associated with securing society and waging the war on terrorism are addressed. Assessments are offered on counterterrorist strategies and options in the new terrorist environment. Lastly, the problem of creating and sustaining alliances in the new era are discussed. September 11, 2001, affected every sector of society in the United States. This book presents a collection of edited readings and articles which examine terrorism in the modern era, offering expert analysis of the post September 11, 2001, environment. It delivers a current perspective on terrorism and examines the challenges that the United States must confront. It develops topics logically by incrementally building upon concepts previously covered and it stimulates critical thinking. Review questions