PSI 2212 - Terrorism and Counterterrorism

Credits: 4
This course provides us with the opportunity to examine the phenomenon of terrorism: what is it, what is the logic behind it, and what factors could motivate groups and individuals that engage in it? What are the conditions that make some individuals more susceptible to radicalization and recruitment by terrorist groups? Why do individuals with similar experiences, levels of distress, and grievances opt not to join such movements? We will start with examining the main themes and debates in the academic literature on terrorism; then we will compare different theories and approaches that look into the behavior and motivation of terrorist groups and individuals. The goal is to familiarize students with different perspectives and tools to better understand the alternative narratives about terrorism, and the possible motives and behavior of terrorist groups.

McDaniel Plan: International Nonwestern; Social, Cultural, and Historical Understanding