About Book

The point of terrorism is to upset people. It makes us feel vulnerable. Sometimes, attempts at rational analysis are viewed as giving aid and comfort to, or sympathizing with, the enemy. ‘The trouble with terrorism’ tries to define terrorism and asks why it is so difficult to define? Should all acts of terrorism be regarded as illegal? What factors decide whether an act of violence by non-state actors is justifiable, even if it is illegal? Terror and war are intimately related. There are three elements in the terror process: seizing action (shock, horror, fear, or revulsion), getting the message across, fight or flight (the response to terrorism). A Very Short Introduction provides a concise and comprehensive overview of terrorism, aiming to explain the phenomenon's origins, motives, and its evolution in the modern world. Townshend explores how terrorism is a historical and political phenomenon rather than merely a series of isolated events, delving into the causes and consequences of terrorism across different contexts. The book is an accessible entry point for those unfamiliar with the complexities of terrorism and serves as a primer on understanding its global implications. Current Era Relevance The book remains highly relevant today as terrorism continues to evolve in both its scale and its methods. It discusses terrorism from a historical context, which is essential for understanding its root causes and the broader socio-political implications, making it significant for anyone working in global security, counterterrorism, or international relations. Furthermore, it offers a critical view of both the impact of terrorism on global politics and the effectiveness of counterterrorism strategies in the contemporary world.