CRIM 103 Chapter 11: Crim 103- Chapter 11.docx

• School: Simon Fraser University
• Department: Criminology
• Course: CRIM 103
• Professor: William Glackman

Document Summary

Crim 103 chapter 11 psychology of terrorism: the nature of terrorism is basically psychological, aim: create fears and psychological debilitation in civilians, only after september 11 did psychologists find an interest in terrorism, there is little evidence to suggest that terrorists are psychopathic, unemotional, unstable or irrational, many studies say that terrorists are psychologically much healthier and more stable than other violent criminals, people who show mental/emotional problems are not good terrorists, terrorism= most often a rational behavior based on the belief that violence is morally justified and necessary to further political goals. 1: terrorism existed in other parts of the world long before 9/11, at least 109 definitions of terrorism in academic literature, common definition amongst all: (a) the use of force or violence (b) by individuals or groups, (c) that is directed toward civilian populations (d) intended to instill fear (e) as a means of coercing individuals or groups to change their political and social positions.