Discuss the definition issues associated with terrorism. What is terrorism? What is international and domestic terrorism? Define repressive state terrorism and state-sponsored terrorism. Provide examples of each in your response.

Question

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

Terrorism can be defined as "violence perpetrated for political reasons by subnational groups or secret state agents, often directed at noncombatant targets, and usually intended to influence an audience." International terrorism is observed when the attacking party is based in one part of the world and organizes violence so that perpetrators and weapons cross borders. In contrast, domestic terrorism is when attackers and target are within a single country, even if there is influence from outside sources. The 9/11 attacks could be considered to be international terrorism whereas the nail bombing during the 1996 Summer Olympic Games can be considered to be domestic terrorism. In addition, repressive state terrorism can be defined as the employment of systematic violence against political opposition within national borders, and state-sponsored terrorism as when a government provides material support, weapons, and training to subnational units in another country so they can attack the government or civilians in that country. In both cases, the violence undermines democratic processes and holds the wrong people responsible for presumed grievances. As demonstrated, terrorism can come in many different forms.