Running head: TERRORISM 1
Based on your readings thus far from the text and your own research from all the definitions of
terrorism, of which there are over 100, which definition do you think fits best and why? Write
out the definition you chose. There are many typologies of terrorism. Which typology do you
think works best? Write out and list. Why this typology? What do you think causes terrorism?
Identifying Terrorism
I think the terrorism definition that fits best is the one used by the Federal Bureau of
Investigation (FBI). The agency defines terrorism as the unauthorized use of power or ferocity
against individuals or assets to threaten or compel a regime, the citizen populace or any segment
thereof, in the progression of political or social goals (FBI, 2014). I chose the definition because
it appears universal and is particular to the role played by the FBI. The definition shows the
dedication of FBI in remaining responsive in its strategy of combating terrorism.
I think that the best typology of terrorism that works best is the political category. This
classification is crucial because it illustrates the ideological and political purposes of terrorism
(Horgan, Shortland, & Abbasciano, 2018). I chose this terrorism typology because it is on the
rise in the United States. There is excessive violence in politics, and it appears that it is not
ending soon. Terrorism is mostly caused by conservative religious or political convictions (Azar,
2003). Terrorists in some parts of the world use religion as a way of fighting others to conform to
their ideals. The most common place is the Middle East.
There are numerous biblical quotes that address the issue of terrorism. Leviticus 26:16
notes, “I also do this to you: I will assign terror over you, wasting illness and fever which shall
eat the eyes and cause grief of heart.” Additionally, Matthew 24:21 notes, “For then, there will be
great tribulation, such as has not been since this time, no, nor ever shall be.” (New International
TERRORISM 2
Version) The biblical quotes note that terror will be meted on the non-believers and cause death
or serious bodily harm. This is a similar concept of contemporary terrorism.
Conclusively, terrorism as defined by the Federal Bureau of Investigation is best suited
for this discussion. The definition suits the agency’s purpose and goals. The political typology of
terrorism is also suited for this discussion. Terrorism is mainly caused by religious and political
beliefs. In regard to biblical quotes, terrorism is noted to cause death and physical injury.
References
Azar, K. (2003). Causes of Terrorism. IU South Bend Undergraduate Research Journal, 6, 1-8.
Retrieved from https://scholarworks.iu.edu/journals/index.php/iusburj/article/view/19747
FBI. (2014). Terrorism. Retrieved from: https://www.fbi.gov/investigate/terrorism on date
14/5/2019
Horgan, J., Shortland, N., & Abbasciano, S. (2018). Towards a typology of terrorism
involvement: A behavioral differentiation of violent extremist offenders. Journal of
Threat Assessment and Management, 5(2), 84. http://dx.doi.org/10.1037/tam0000102
New International Version (NIV) (2011). Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan
