The Strategic Logic Behind Terrorism and Counterterrorism

These flashcards capture key vocabulary and concepts related to the strategies and logics of terrorism and counterterrorism as discussed in the lecture.

Terrorism

The use of violence against civilians by nonstate actors to attain political goals.

Costly Signaling

A method where terrorists demonstrate their willingness to inflict costs to make their threats credible.

Attrition

A strategy where terrorists persuade the enemy of their strength by inflicting considerable costs.

Intimidation

A terrorism strategy aimed at demonstrating power to punish disobedience while showcasing government weakness.

Provocation

Inducing the enemy to respond with violence that radicalizes the population and garners support for terrorists.

Spoiling

Attacking to demonstrate the weakness of moderates and undermine peace negotiations.

Outbidding

Using violence to show greater resolve than rival groups in order to gain public support.

Political Objectives

The primary goals that drive terrorist organizations, typically manifesting as regime change, territorial change, policy change, social control, or status quo maintenance.

Regime Change

The goal of overthrowing a government and replacing it with one more aligned with the terrorists.

Policy Change

A broader category of demands influencing specific government policies.

Social Control

Efforts by terrorists to constrain the behavior of individuals rather than focusing solely on state targets.

Status Quo Maintenance

Supporting an existing regime against groups seeking to change it.

Domestic Audience

The group within the terrorists’ community that can provide resources and must comply with the terrorists' direction.

Targeted Responses

Counterterrorism measures that aim to precisely address the threats posed by terrorism.

Psychological Costs

The impacts of terrorism on public perception, and how fearful reactions can undermine effective counterterrorism.

Counterterror Strategies

Methods implemented by governments to prevent terrorism and mitigate its effects by addressing the strategic logic behind terrorist actions.