NCJ Number
79795
Journal
Tijdschrift voor de politie Volume: 40 Issue: 9 Dated: (September 1978) Pages: 429-433,435-438
Date Published
1978
Length
9 pages
Annotation
A critical analysis examines conventional wisdom about the social and psychological origins, and consequences of terrorism, as well as about measures for controlling terrorism.
Abstract
The article seeks to effect an objective modification of commonly held views on terrorism, which have been molded by journalistic sensationalism, political opportunism, and intellectual fashion. Rather than a phenomenon limited to the present times and to liberal democratic societies, terrorism is viewed as a phenomenon that can occur at any time. However, modern terrorism has its own characteristics, is more likely to occur in industrial than agrarian societies and in democratic than totalitarian societies, and is likely to assume a form peculiar to the society of origin. Furthermore, terrorist activities are not restricted to particular segments of society, e.g., the servile masses, the lowest classes, the radical left, or psychopaths. Instead, terrorist activities may be undertaken by or against a particular government or may be directed at a given government from either the right or the left. Most terrorists belong to the middle class, and while terrorism is frequently practiced by psychologically extreme individuals, it may also be a rational instrument. Terrorist activities are not necessarily carefully planned by tight-knit, well-organized groups: terrorists are frequently divided among themselves about which course of action to take. As for consequences, the negative effects of terrorism on democracies are overestimated, and terrorist efforts may actually aid totalitarian governments in maintaining their control. Although terrorism may become more dangerous as terrorists adopt nuclear weapons and use biological or bacterial sabotage, there are no signs that they will necessarily do so. The best means for counteracting terrorism are not always extreme police countermeasures, far-reaching emergency power laws, counter-terrorism, and use of the military. Such actions are frequently not only fruitless, but may interfere with citizens' rights and the principles of legality. Notes are supplied.