The Causes of Terrorism and How it can be Stopped

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"Terrorism and guerrilla warfare, whether justified as resistance to oppression or condemned as disrupting the rule of law, are as old as civilization itself. The power of the terrorist, however, has been magnified by modern weapons, including television, which he has learned to exploit." (Guerrillas and Terrorists) There are many definitions and forms of terrorism: biological and chemical, nuclear, international, cyber, criminal, environmental, and US Domestic terrorism are some examples. Usually, terrorists blackmail governments with hostages to reach their ultimate goals. "In the 1980's, kidnapping was the preferred action of terrorists groups." (World History People and Nations) In some incidents, terrorists kill unsuspecting, innocent people and themselves as well.

The Purpose of Terrorism:

Why do people become terrorists and inflict terror? What is their true purpose? Why do they have to destroy the remaining peace in our world? Before this research, I realize that terrorism took so many forms. Since terror means fear, horror, and fright, terrorism was a just "horrible thing" to me. Now, it is an issue that has a great impact on our society and world; it is not to be taken lightly.

Many analysts, researchers, and professors have tried to define the purpose of terrorism. Some believe that that can only be achieved when we know how the mind of a terrorist works.

Terrorists are like pests that one can not get rid of. Like a virus being exposed to anti-bodies, they just get stronger and "immune" to our defenses. "Terrorists are nothing if not adaptable. International terrorists have shifted tactics and targets many times over the years in response to changing circumstances. Shifting political fortunes and new antiterrori...

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...mocrats and Republicans. The Act would have allowed the information obtained in this way to be used in court. Rep. Bob Barr (R-Ga.) said: "We do not need to give our government vast new powers." Members of civil liberties groups agreed, saying that this provision would have violated people's right to privacy. Other lawmakers argued that tragedies such as the Oklahoma City bombing make it essential that the federal government be allowed to monitor militia groups more closely." ("Domestic Terrorism, Close up Foundation, Online")

Is pushing an old lady off train platforms, an act of terrorism? The victim is an innocent wrinkled-up aged woman and the person pushing her is a "terrorist" to the victim's family. Others might think of the person as a cruel maniac. Therefore, it is essential that one puts into consideration the thoughts of others before defining terrorism.

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