| ID | 103181 |
| Title Proper | Discussing concepts of terrorists rationality |
| Other Title Information | implications for counterterrorism policy |
| Language | ENG |
| Author | Eric van Um |
| Publication | 2011. |
| Summary / Abstract (Note) | Many researchers on terrorism tend to characterize terrorists as instrumentally rational and politically motivated. Empirically, however, terrorists often seem to deviate from instrumentally rational behavior and to be motivated by other than political reasons. This paper details the explanatory power of various concepts of terrorist rationality incorporating motivations beyond political ones. Results show that none of the concepts discussed accounts for all terrorist actions but all of the concepts are capable of explaining certain aspects of the phenomenon of terrorism. A discussion follows on the appropriateness of specific counterterrorism measures for the concepts of rationality and motivations identified. |
| `In' analytical Note | Defence and Peace Economics Vol. 22, No. 2; Apr 2011: p.161 - 179 |
| Journal Source | Defence and Peace Economics Vol. 22, No. 2; Apr 2011: p.161 - 179 |
| Key Words | Terrorism ; Rational Choice ; Concepts of Rationality ; Motivation ; Counterterrorism |