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Week 2

Tabitha Lackman

Sullivan University

PSA 304 Current Issues in Terrorism

Littrell

July 9, 2023
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Week 2

I. Is the world experiencing a surge in religious violence? The answer to this question is

complicated. While there have been many high-profile cases of religious violence over

the past few years, it's important to remember that religious violence is not new. In fact, it

has been around for centuries. However, with the advent of global mass media and the

rise of the internet, it has become easier than ever to report and share cases of religious

violence. This, in turn, can create the perception that there is a rise in religious violence.

Keep in mind, however, that the overwhelming majority of religious people and groups

are peace-loving and do not advocate violence.

II. The classification of a criminal group as a terrorist may be contingent upon the nature of

its activities. A criminal group may be classified as a terrorist if it employs or threatens to

use violence in order to instill fear and promote a particular political, religious or

ideological cause. Not all criminal groups meet this definition, as some are primarily

driven by economic gain rather than ideology. While their activities may be detrimental

and illegal, they generally do not involve the same degree of unprovoked violence or the

intention to instill widespread fear.

III. The concept of a" clash of civilizations" as a justification for terrorism is a matter of

debate. While some terrorist groups present their activities as a result of a clash between

distinct cultural or religious communities, it is too simplistic to attribute all terrorism to

this particular dynamic. In reality, terrorism is a multifaceted phenomenon that can be

triggered by a variety of sources, such as political grievances, economic disparity, and

social exclusion.
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IV. Counterterrorism operations can face unique challenges when dealing with insurgencies.

These insurgencies are often characterized by a lack of familiarity with local terrain and

local populations, which can provide a strategic advantage to the insurgency.

Additionally, the insurgency may be supported by a significant portion of the population,

making it difficult for counterterrorism forces to effectively isolate the insurgency.

Furthermore, the insurgency often involves a combination of both political and military

tactics, making it difficult to address the insurgency through a purely military approach.

V. An effective anti-terrorism policy would likely include a combination of the following:

Stricter regulation and supervision of charitable organizations. Enhanced international

cooperation to monitor and disrupt financial transfers to terrorist groups. Public education

campaigns to raise awareness among donors about the potential risks associated with

terrorist financing. Ensure that anti-terrorism measures do not interfere with

legitimate charitable activities or violate donors' rights.

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References

White, J. R., & Chermak, S. (2021). Terrorism and homeland security (010th ed.). Cengage

Learning.