NCJ Number
70591
Journal
Terrorism Volume: 1 Issue: 3 and 4 Dated: (1978) Pages: 237-254
Date Published
1978
Length
18 pages
Annotation
This article discusses the psychodynamics of terrorism; the distinction between target and victim; and terrorism as the pursuit of the absolute end, as a response to lack of self-esteem, and as a kind of symbol-magic.
Abstract
Terrorism can be defined as the use of force to produce a certain fearful state of mind and by the evocation of fear in someone other than those to whom the force is applied. In addition, the demands made by terrorists (the conditions they set) can be distinguished from the aim of their act of terror which relates to the targets. Acts of terror may also intend to impress audiences, either the general audience of public opinion, or special audiences consisting of potential rivals or allies of the terrorist. Characteristics of terrorism include pursuit of an absolute end, such as national liberation, as the absolute standard of morality; self-righteousness and a demonization of the target; a renewed sense of masculinity, for male terrorists, and the sense of acquiring a new identity; and a sense of performing on the stage of history by being able to compel powerful and prestigious persons. In addition, terrorism embodies the magic of symbols and of violence. Combating terrorism includes unwavering refusals to release arrested terrorists for trial by others, rejection of all terrorist demands for the release of those imprisoned for previous terrorist acts, and punishment of accessories before and after the fact. Terrorists should be tried as individuals, rather than as a group, and the psychic distance with which the terrorist is responded to should be increased. Media coverage should be minimized and penal sentences, rather than capital punishment, should be inflicted.