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Terrorism and Counterterrorism: Comparing Theory and Practice

Approx. 22 hours to complete

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Course Summary

This course explores the phenomenon of terrorism and its impact on societies, both domestically and internationally. Students will learn about the history of terrorism, its causes and motivations, and strategies for preventing and responding to terrorist attacks.

Key Learning Points

Gain a comprehensive understanding of terrorism and its effects on society
Learn about the motivations behind terrorist attacks and strategies for prevention
Explore case studies of major terrorist events and their aftermath

Learning Outcomes

Understand the history of terrorism and its causes
Develop strategies for preventing and responding to terrorist attacks
Analyze the impact of terrorism on society

Prerequisites or good to have knowledge before taking this course

Basic understanding of international relations
Willingness to engage with sensitive and potentially controversial topics

Course Difficulty Level

Intermediate

Course Format

Online self-paced
Video lectures
Quizzes and assignments

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Notable People in This Field

Bruce Hoffman
Jessica Stern
John Horgan

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Description

Terrorism has arguably been one of the defining factors of our age. It frequently makes headlines, threatening or attacking governments, private business and ordinary citizens. And in many parts of the world, it has been one of the most important threats to peace, security and stability. But what does this exactly mean? What is the nature of this threat? Who or what is threatened, how, by whom and why? What can be done about it or how can we at least limit the impact of terrorism and make sure that terrorists do not make headlines and manage to scare us?

These are just a handful of questions that will be addressed in this course that consists of three parts. First it focuses on the essence of terrorism as an instrument to achieve certain goals, in addition to an exploration of this phenomenon and the difficulties in defining it. The second part provides an overview of the state of the art in (counter) terrorism studies. Since ‘9/11’ terrorism studies have grown exponentially, reflecting the rise in perceived threats. But what has academia come up with? What theories, assumptions and conventional wisdom has it produced that could be of help in understanding terrorism and dealing with it? The most interesting results are examined and compared with empirical evidence with the aim to either stress their importance or to debunk them as myths. The final part looks into the implications and possibilities for policy making. The course ends with a module specifically designed to address one of today's most topical issue: the foreign fighter phenomenon.

Outline

Welcome & the essence of terrorism
Welcome to the Course!
1.1 Introduction
1.2 History of Terrorism
1.3 Use of the Word Terrorism
1.4 Why There Are No Generally Accepted Definitions
1.5 Need For a Definition: Some Attempts
1.6 Essence of Terrorism
Interview with Prof. Alex Schmid about Defining Terrorism
Meet the team & Leiden University
Complete our short survey
Course Overview
Course Format
What do we expect from you
Don't forget to check out the extra material!
Readings
Definition and Essence of Terrorism

Researching Terrorism and Counterterrorism
2.1 History of Terrorism Studies
2.2 Disciplines & Approaches
2.3 Key Authors & Centres
2.4 Challenges & Dilemmas
2.5 Current State of the Art
Interview with Akinola Olojo about the Lack of Non-Western Researchers in Terrorism Studies
Readings
Key Authors
Researching Terrorism and Counterterrorism

5 Assumptions on Terrorism
3.1 Assumption: Terrorism is caused by poverty
3.2 Assumption: Terrorists are crazy
3.3 Assumption: Terrorism is increasingly lethal
3.4 Assumption: Terrorism is predominantly anti-western
3.5 Assumption: Terrorism is successful
Readings
5 Assumptions on Terrorism

5 Assumptions on Counterterrorism
4.1 Assumption: One can recognise a terrorist
4.2 Assumption: Deradicalisation is possible
4.3 Assumption: Decapitation of terrorist organisations works
4.4 Assumption: Terrorism cannot be defeated
4.5 Assumption: Terrorism can best be managed by a holistic approach
Interview with Dr. Jamie Shea (NATO)
Video presentation of Quirine Eijkman of Amnesty International on Drone Strikes in Pakistan
Readings
5 Assumptions on Counterterrorism

Dealing with Terrorism and the Future
5.1 Past Weeks & This Week
5.2 Underresearched Topics
5.3 Fear and Resilience
5.4 Fear and Impact Management
5.5 Future of Terrorism
Phil Gurski - Intelligence Analysis
Readings
Dealing with Terrorism and Future of Terrorism

Making Headlines Today - Foreign Fighters
6.1 Why is it Making Headlines?
6.2 Foreign Fighters in Syria: Who are They and Why do They Go?
6.3 Fighting Groups in Syria and Iraq
6.4 Foreign Fighters: A Threat?
6.5 Policy Options
Interview Phil Gurski - Western Foreign Fighters
Readings
Want to learn more?
Complete our short survey
Foreign Fighters
Final Exam

Summary of User Reviews

The Terrorism and Counterterrorism course is highly recommended by many users for its informative and thought-provoking content. The course provides a comprehensive overview of terrorism and counterterrorism, including the historical context, theories, and practical approaches.

Key Aspect Users Liked About This Course

Many users appreciate the course's emphasis on analyzing and comparing different theories and practices in the field of counterterrorism.

Pros from User Reviews

The course provides a thorough understanding of the subject matter and its real-world implications.
The instructors are knowledgeable and engaging, making the course enjoyable and easy to follow.
The course includes a variety of multimedia resources, such as videos, articles, and case studies, which enhance the learning experience.
The course encourages critical thinking and fosters lively discussions among participants.
The course provides insights into current events and issues related to terrorism and counterterrorism.

Cons from User Reviews

Some users feel that the course could benefit from more in-depth coverage of certain topics.
The workload can be heavy at times, especially for those with limited time to commit to the course.
Some users find the course to be more theoretical than practical, and would prefer more real-world examples and case studies.
The course may not be suitable for those with a limited background in political science or international relations.
Some users feel that the course would benefit from more interaction with the instructors and fellow participants.

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Terrorism and Counterterrorism: Comparing Theory and Practice

Terrorism has arguably been one of the defining factors of our age. It frequently makes headlines, threatening or attacking governments, private business and ordinary citizens....

Save Course