NCJ Number
191436
Date Published
1998
Length
203 pages
Annotation
This book focuses on political violence and the responses the United States can adopt that do not threaten its institutions.
Abstract
The primary concerns in dealing with terrorism are to maintain and protect life, the liberties necessary to a vibrant democracy, and the unity of the society. Preserving these three values is the real goal of a democratic society, not simply destroying each manifestation of terrorism as it arises. Common sense is needed most. The objective of terrorism is political. Reason is essential to dealing with a tactic that only appears to be senseless. Terrorism is generally calculated and sometimes successful. Minimizing that success is very much in the interest of democracies, but to do so requires intelligence more than passion and calculation more than anger. Chapter One examines the differences in definitions of terrorism and the difficulties of placing it within more familiar contexts of crime, warfare, or politics. Chapter Two focuses on the role of intelligence and special problems presented by international terrorism. Chapter Three discusses the hostage situation and negotiations. International cooperation in preventing and punishing terrorism is examined in Chapter Four. Chapter Five highlights state-sponsored terrorism and retaliation. Chapter Six presents an overview of preventive steps to make terrorist activities more difficult or riskier. Chapter Seven details using the criminal justice system to catch and punish terrorists. Chapter Eight explores the critical role of the gathering and processing of domestic intelligence in the United States. Chapter Nine presents a strategy of common sense in dealing with politically motivated violence. For related chapters see NCJ-191437-445. Notes, index