This course examines the global terrorism phenomenon and the social, economic, political, and religious conditions of select states, groups, and individuals that influence the terrorist mindset. Students examine the definitions, origins and development of terror as a means of influencing public policy decisions and in fostering transitions in public power to promote group goals. Specific historical instances of the use of terror are evaluated, assessed, and analyzed. Examples of groups such as the Al-Qaeda terrorist network are assessed including focused discussions on current events. Topics include: geography and geopolitics of terrorism, origins and history of terrorism, characteristics and goals of terrorism, role of politics and religion in terrorism, media impact on terrorism recruiting, and Al-Qaeda in Iraq organization.

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