Terrorism: Theory and Praxis Richard Hogan Terrorism in Paris PURDUE uNIVERSITY Beering Hall B261 April 22, 2016
Popular Misconceptions Terrorism is New: 21st Century phenomenon Terrorism is foreign: Middle Easter or Islamic Terrorist are Crazy (unlike rebels or protestors) Terrorists are Violent One person’s terrorist is another’s Freedom Fighter
Political Strategies Strategies Targets Goals Tactics Terrorism Civilians Frighten Might use violence Rebellion Authorities Resist Revolution Government Overthrow Probably use violence Genocide Population Exterminate Virtually always violent
What Challengers Need People Money Other stuff that can be used to influence authorities (resources) Organization Opportunities: divided elites, powerful allies, lack of repression
What Governments Need Popular support Military support (army) International Support
Micro-processes/Mechanisms Brokerage Divide and conquer Escalation Institutionalization
Syria and Iraq Political opportunities for rebels or terrorists Both can escalate Neither can institutionalize Extermination? Broken/failed states Brokerage? Strong States or Democratic States Hegemonic bourgeoisie versions of colonialism The absolutist path to democracy
That’s All Folks Thanks for your patience and perseverance. There is a print version of this paper that I would gladly share hoganr@purdue.edu I would welcome questions and comments now