NCJ Number
111915
Date Published
1988
Length
700 pages
Annotation
This text presents an overview of the theories, concepts, and literature on political terrorism and its perpetrators.
Abstract
It reviews definitions and typologies of terrorism. Included are a selection of government and academic definitions and an analysis of such major typologies as actor-based, purpose-based, politically oriented, and multidimensional. Also examined are common conceptualizations and myths about terrorism, as well as communication, psychological, sociological, conspiracy, and surrogate warfare theories explaining the rise of terrorism. Terrorists' own theories are included. An evaluation of terrorism data sources looks at computerized and noncomputer data bases, chronologies, journals, and newsletters. Essential works on terrorism are listed under the headings of conceptual and theoretical works, case studies, managing and controlling terrorism, state and state-supported terrorism, strategy, etiology, international terrorism, and bibliographies. A bibliography provides 5,831 citations under 20 major category headings. A world directory of terrorist organizations describes the leadership, history, activities, and alliances of groups involved in terrorism, guerilla warfare, and political violence and protest. Chapter notes, tables, diagrams, and index.