Terrorism: A Critical Introduction

by Richard Jackson, Marie Breen Smyth, Jeroen Gunning

This innovative text provides a much-needed critical introduction to terrorism. Cutting-edge research on contemporary issues is combined with new insights into long-debated issues such as the definition of terrorism, the nature of the terrorist threat and counter-terrorism strategies. Showing that the methods we adopt as well as the material we study are vital for a clear understanding of the subject, this text goes beyond traditional IR approaches to rethink popular beliefs and assumptions about terrorism. Taking a genuinely global and integrated approach, this book is an ideal entry into the study of terrorism.

In the years since 9/11, terrorism has been transformed into an issue of global significance. Terrorism and the war on terror has affected virtually every aspect of modern life, and a precise understanding of terrorism is now more important - and contentious - than ever. This text examines the origins, perceptions of, and responses to, terrorism and counter-terrorism in the contemporary world. It takes into account recent developments on the world stage as well as within - and in response to - critical terrorism studies.

This text is the ultimate companion for students studying terrorism as part of an undergraduate or postgraduate degree. It guides students step-by-step to have a deeper understanding of terrorism and a more nuanced approach to their studies.

New to this
- Fully revised second edition of a leading text on an increasingly popular topic
- New sections on 'the war on terror'
- New discussion questions, further reading and web links

Genres: Politics

332 pages, Paperback

First published April 12, 2011

Reviews

[Allie Funk · Rating 5 out of 5]

A must-read for anyone wanting to dive into the terrorism field. It's a perfect introduction to those wanting to be critical of inefficient and ineffective approaches to terrorism and counterterrorism policies. Jackson and Smyth are must-reads in Critical Terrorism Studies.

[Punk Johnny Cash]

I feel the approach to the subject of terrorism is amazing in this book. I strongly suggest it. It is good to see a critical lens towards political violence. This is so greatly needed in mainstream discourse.