NCJ Number
105257
Journal
Foreign Affairs Volume: 65 Issue: 1 Dated: (Fall 1986) Pages: 86-100
Date Published
1986
Length
15 pages
Annotation
This article reflects on the dynamics and effectiveness of terrorism along with counter terrorist tactics.
Abstract
Most experts agree that terrorism is the use or threat of violence, a method of combat or a strategy to achieve certain goals; that it is ruthless and does not conform to humanitarian norms; and that publicity is an essential factor in terrorist strategy. Beyond these points of agreement, definitions differ widely. Terrorism by small groups without significant state sponsorship is not likely to have a long-term effect on a stable state, and it is subject to eradication should the state decide to give top priority to its suppression. This is likely to happen when terrorist groups achieve some degree of success in stimulating fear or frustration in a populace and among the state's political leaders. State-sponsored terrorism has the potential for escalating into full military conflict among the states involved. Carefully measured responses are required if this is to be avoided. Some believe terrorism can be eradicated by changing the conditions that spawn it, but conditions will never be to everyone's liking. An effective dictatorship can suppress terrorism, but hardly a major democratic nation has escaped it. As long as terrorism is no more than a nuisance, a democracy will rightly resist any curtailment of its traditional freedoms so as to counter terrorism. Should terrorism become more than a nuisance, citizenries will likely support more drastic measures, even though it may mean added inconveniences and restricted freedom.