NCJ Number
201751
Journal
Studies in Conflict & Terrorism Volume: 26 Issue: 4 Dated: July/August 2003 Pages: 289-309
Date Published
July 2003
Length
21 pages
Annotation
This article examines the new similarities between traditional studies of terrorism and conflict analysis.
Abstract
Although in our modern world terrorism has entered the stage as a prominent player, researchers of terrorism and researchers of conflict analysis remain strangely at odds, uneasy in the notion that each has something to offer the other. In an attempt to bridge divides for the sake of coherent frameworks on terror and conflict, the author examines how each discipline may cross-fertilize the other, providing valuable insights and theoretical underpinnings to their prospective studies. Another goal in bringing these disciplines together is to offer policymakers new tools to keep peace on the international front. The author outlines the key concepts and ideas presented by terrorism studies and then by conflict studies. The author asserts that terrorism debates can be enriched by adding debates surrounding the development of war, which have traditionally been the domain of conflict studies. Tensions remain between the two studies however, because conflict studies have focused on the causes of conflict and broad responses, while terrorism studies have focused on networks of actors, group dynamics, and narrow responses. Definitional problems between the two studies also abound. However, the author maintains that these two disciplines can make profitable bedfellows given the fact that terrorism is, in its essence, a form of conflict. Ultimately, then, in order to form effective policy, it is beneficial to join these two disciplines in further understanding of both conflict and terrorism. 70 Notes