The study of terrorism requires a review of the events, ideas, motivations, and histories that result in terrorist acts, as well as an examination of the theories that help explain this volatile behavior. Understanding Challenges, Perspectives, and Issues is a dynamic textbook for students who wish to explore the phenomenon of terrorism past and present. The text begins with a conceptual overview of terrorism, progresses to a focused discussion of the terrorists, investigates the nuances of the terrorist trade, and concludes with a final analysis of modern terrorism. Recommended for undergraduate and graduate students taking terrorism courses in criminal justice, criminology, sociology, political science, and public administration.
This is perhaps the best book focused on terrorism as a broad subject. Martin has included information and examples from a multitude of different topics and historical situations related to the issue.
Another benefit of this book is that it was cheap on Amazon, especially when compared to other text books. This was the main source used during a Terrorism master's course I took in Fall 2015 and I was able to incorporate the book into essays for several other courses before I graduated.
Very well structured and informed overview of terrorism. More information than application, and not a complete criminal justice system perspective. This is one of the two top books on terrorism that are current.