The present essay provides an overview over the current literature - from the viewpoint of both criminological and psychological theory - on the essence of, and motivation for, terrorism and terrorist acts.
The field of terrorism has been explored widely across the social sciences, including by political and psychological theory, in regard to its varied nature, motivation and application. There are a large number of identified definitions of what would constitute ‘terrorism’ under national and international law. Currently, Dry Run terrorism; Cyber terrorism; Individual terrorism; Lone Wolf terrorism; Bioterrorism; Radicalised terrorism; and Eco-Home grown terrorism have been identified. Due to these various formats of what would constitute ‘terrorism’ and a ‘terrorist act’, over a hundred definitions of ‘terrorism’ have been identified in the existing academic literature.
However, the international community has been unable to agree upon a universal definition. The term of ‘terrorism’, however, is rooted in the political discourse of the French, more specifically the French Revolution where the use of the term a ‘reign of terror’ came into being. The French word terrorisme derives from the Latin verb terreȯ meaning ‘I frighten’. The defeat of the Jacobins transformed the word into a powerful new governmental form of criminality. Despite its origins in governmental atrocities towards citizens, it now applies to individual citizen acts as well as organizations and national state governments.
Table of Contents
1. By synthesising relevant research and theory, critically contrast criminological and psychological theories of terrorism.
Objectives and Themes
This paper aims to critically evaluate and contrast various criminological and psychological theories concerning the nature, motivations, and underlying causes of terrorism. By synthesizing existing academic literature, the research explores how these distinct yet overlapping disciplines explain why individuals and groups engage in terrorist activities, ultimately highlighting the need for a comprehensive, context-oriented approach to understanding and preventing such phenomena.
- The distinction between psychological and criminological approaches to terrorism.
- Analysis of core psychological theories, including psychoanalytic perspectives on individual motivation.
- Examination of criminological frameworks, specifically General Strain Theory and Rational Choice Theory.
- The impact of group dynamics, social identity, and political grievances on radicalization.
- The necessity for integrated, context-sensitive models to improve counter-terrorism strategies.
Excerpt from the Book
By synthesising relevant research and theory, critically contrast criminological and psychological theories of terrorism.
The field of terrorism has been explored widely across Social Science epidemiology, including political and psychological theory due to its varied nature, motivation and application (Coppock et al, 2014). There are a large number of identified definitions of what would constitute ‘terrorism’ under national and international law. Currently Dry Run terrorism; Cyber terrorism; Individual terrorism; Lone Wolf terrorism; Bioterrorism; Radicalised terrorism; and Eco-Home grown terrorism have been identified (Agnew, 2010; Canter et al, 2014; Danilović et al, 2013; Freilich et al, 2015; Gross et al, 2016; Meloy et al, 2014; Perry et al, 2015; Post et al, 2009). Due to these various formats of what would constitute ‘terrorism’ and a ‘terrorist act’, over a hundred definitions of ‘terrorism’ have been identified in the existing academic literature (Danilović et al, 2013; Schmid, 1983, 2004; Victoroff, 2005). However the international community has been unable to agree upon a universal definition (United Nations, 2004). The term of ‘terrorism’ however is rooted in the political discourse of the French, more specifically the French Revolution where the use of the term a ‘reign of terror’ came into being (Record, 2003).
Summary of Chapters
1. By synthesising relevant research and theory, critically contrast criminological and psychological theories of terrorism: This introductory section establishes the definitions and historical context of terrorism, while outlining the shift toward interdisciplinary research following the 9/11 attacks. It further sets the stage for comparing diverse psychological and criminological frameworks used to interpret the motivations behind terrorist acts.
Keywords
Terrorism, Criminology, Psychology, Radicalization, General Strain Theory, Rational Choice Theory, Psychoanalysis, Social Identity Theory, Political Motivation, Lone Wolf, Jihad, Counter-terrorism, Collective Dynamics, Grievance, Behavioral Phenomenon
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary focus of this academic paper?
The paper focuses on critically comparing and contrasting the different criminological and psychological theories that attempt to explain the nature and motivations behind acts of terrorism.
What are the central thematic fields explored?
The central themes include the definition of terrorism, psychological predispositions, sociological influences, individual versus group motivations, and the application of various theories like Strain Theory and Rational Choice Theory.
What is the primary objective of the research?
The primary objective is to synthesize existing theory and research to determine how these disciplines contribute to an integrated understanding of why individuals become terrorists.
Which scientific methodologies are mentioned?
The paper reviews academic literature and employs thematic analysis of existing theories, while also considering empirical studies, clinical interviews, and the analysis of speech patterns and vocabulary used by convicted terrorists.
What core topics are addressed in the main body?
The main body covers a wide range of subjects, including historical definitions, psychological behavioral models, the role of perceived grievances, rational decision-making in criminal acts, and the dynamics of social identity in extremist groups.
Which keywords best characterize this research?
Key terms include Terrorism, Criminology, Psychology, Radicalization, General Strain Theory, Rational Choice Theory, and Social Identity Theory.
How does the paper differentiate between psychological and criminological approaches?
Psychological approaches tend to focus on individual behavioral phenomena and personality traits, whereas criminological approaches emphasize sociological factors, such as political context, economic deprivation, and rational choice models.
What is the author's stance on the effectiveness of pure psychological profiling?
The author argues that while psychological traits may serve as a predisposition, they are insufficient as a sole explanation for terrorism, advocating instead for a context-oriented approach that integrates sociological factors.
How does Social Identity Theory contribute to the understanding of terrorist organizations?
Social Identity Theory explains how personal identity is often subjugated to group aims in authoritarian settings, facilitating a "us-and-them" dichotomy that drives radicalization through collective goals.
- Citar trabajo
- Alexander Syder (Autor), 2017, Terrorism. Criminological and Psychological Theories, Múnich, GRIN Verlag, https://www.grin.com/document/352074
