Forensic Theology – Ideological Threat Assessments by Randy Gonzalez

1Forensic Theology – Ideological Threat Assessments by Randy GonzalezWhat is “forensic theology”? Another way to analyze modus operandi in criminalcases? For instance, suspicion could fall on a seemingly dangerous cult, gang, terroristgroup or other organized criminal enterprise? Or, an evolving tactic to analyze anti-socialextreme belief systems? Such as hate groups. Still though, “forensic theology” might be apotential investigative strategy to scrutinize probable criminality among fanaticalideologies? Well then, let’s break down the components. Because there might be anotheroption to constructing threat analyses on the basis of extremist behaviors. An allegationof the application of “forensic theology” has been suggested in relation to terroristicactivities. But, why stop there? Particularly as applied to radical domestic and foreignbelief systems. Or, terrorism perpetrated from a fundamentalist doctrine.Yet, the word “forensic” holds many connotations. For which there are severalinterpretations and viewpoints. Often misunderstood and confused with movie andtelevision stereotypes. For some students in undergraduate criminal justice courses, themere mention of the word invites salacious overtones. Kind of like an allusion to theinaccurate non-scientific application of something called “criminal profiling” or somekind of “scale of evil”. Again, the titillation amplifies with mystification.Suddenly, with sufficient media hype, as well as heavy concentration of sensationalism, everyone wants to “do” forensics. Become a crime scene investigator,work in “CSI”, or become a “profiler”. Exciting, sexy and enticing prospects for creativeimaginations. Aside from any rational association with real world applications. Sort of inthe same realm with fortune tellers, mentalists and psychic detectives. No long term real-word practical law enforcement expertise is ever required. Just capitalizing onexaggerated claims masquerading as authenticity. Believability relies on gullibility. Whatsome investigators refer to as the “psychology of self-deception”.

Never the less, the term “forensic” has been applied to many philosophical disciplines.Not to mention, of course, an array of various schools of thought within certain fields of study. In modern America, for example, we have things such as “forensic debate”,“forensic science”, “forensic autopsy”, as well as “forensic anthropology”.

Carroll, Robert T., articles relative to the following: “Psychic Detective”, and “Criminal profiling – ColdReading for Cold Cases”, from the Skeptic’s Dictionary, 02/23/09, at Skepdic.com,http://www.skepdic.com/psychdet.html; and,http://www.skepdic.com/refuge/funk58.html;

Forensic Theology – Ideological Threat Assessments by Randy Gonzalez

2The list of things “forensic”, or for that matter “forensic science”, could get lengthy.Plus, we can’t forget about the pseudo-scientific notions of “forensic psychology”. And,as mentioned earlier, even “forensic profiling”. So, “forensic theology”? Why not addthis to the mix of controversial criminological fascinations? Oh what the heck? The meremention conjures an array of adventurous possibilities. However, individual fantasiesaside, what exactly could this phrase mean? In one instance, the term surfaces in aninvestigative report discussing Middle Eastern terrorism. And, in particular, theconnection between ideology and extreme forms of rebellious behaviors. As in terroristactivities connected to religious fundamentalism of an ultra disruptive nature.An issue, for some of us criminologists, is to refine the definition. And, at some point,make practical the application of such thinking processes. Terminologies can get us allconfused and misdirected if we’re not careful. We can invent all manner of urban legend.And, then call it fact, which in reality might simply be fabrication. But, in the effort toidentify and understand terrorist intentions. Reading signs, symbols and significance inaggressive propaganda might bear clues to eventual intentions. Not to forget of course,the symbolism that serves as precursor to probable criminal behaviors. By analysis of writings, transactional documents, witness statements, intelligence gathering, surveillanceand so forth. Possibly, intent could be anticipated. And, thereby, purposes might suggesthostile actions against communal safety and security.

Important here, to point out at this juncture. Contrary to “reading signatures” at crimescenes, of so called “organized” or “disorganized” unknown murderers, termed “serialkillers”. Where the person or persons remain anonymous archetypes of some typecastgeneric template. Instead, with regard to “forensic theology”, we’re talking about knownquantities of potential criminalities. As in terrorist groupings, gangs, dangerous culticactivities, hate mongering organizations of various ideological spectra. Of which, we canobserve past, present and perhaps future probabilities in non pro-social endeavors. Forthem, observation notes attendant associational activities, graffiti, online blogs, web sites,assorted propaganda, and all kinds of symbolism. To this, investigators might link theauthentication of emailing, chat rooms interactivities, and group linkages.

Grey, Stephen, an article appearing online, entitled: “Follow the Mullahs”, The Atlantic, November,2004;http://www.theatlantic.com/doc/200411/grey;

Forensic Theology – Ideological Threat Assessments by Randy Gonzalez

3In other words, with a workable conception of “forensic theology”, we’re dealing withthe potentiality of known evidentiary characteristics, circumstantial inferences andinformational data bases from definable sources. For definitional applicability, we couldsay then, that “forensic” means the wide-ranging spectrum of legal issues affecting thecriminal justice system. Encompassing investigative, prosecutorial and evidentiaryparameters. Within which, we need to consider multi-level interfaces, from federal, stateand local law enforcement operations. With that, every effort should be made to ensuremethodical verifiable analysis of targeted objectives. Added to the application of “forensic” operability, we could associate a concept of “theology” or “thinking”.Again, in regard to those things “theological”, the term could be broadly interpreted.Bringing together critical thinking efforts to address anticipation of violent behaviorsbacked by dogmatic philosophies. This would cover the careful study of belief systemsthat formulate extremism outside conventional social interactions. More generally, this issuggested to be the analysis of religious, spiritual and ideological thinking processes.With a focus on those individuals, collusive entities and groups that could be potentiallyanti-social in a destructive sense. Such as with gangs, terrorist cells, organized crime andothers. The investigative process would be shaped by an external assessment of probablecriminality. So, together, we have a thumbnail depiction for a concept of “forensictheology”. This focuses mostly on group threats to social stability.In assessing criminal motivations, the classical perspective offers the rationality of choice. Criminals, not unlike the rest of us, freely choose their planned, calculated andselected targets for opportunistic self-gratification. As with humanity in general,selfishness is at the core of motivational purposes. For terrorists, as an example,aggression, violence and intimidation serve the basis to achieve individual or groupadvantage over others. While they tend to operate on a larger scale, with a political coverstory. Similar to transnational organized criminal elements. Terrorists, like streetcriminals or corporate criminals, commit typical crimes of murder, rape, robbery, theftand so, for the sake of personal enrichment. They may plead or advocate a publiclyseductive cause, such as the environment, animal research and oppression. None the less,their ideological dogma remains an illusion for their real intentions.

Samenow, S. E., Inside the Criminal Mind, (New York, NY: Crown Publishers, 2004), pages 164-166;