Globalization Of Terrorism

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Although many State security agendas use the basis of the attacks of September 11, 2001 to combat terrorism, terrorism is not a new phenomenon. Terrorism often has deep historical roots (Sens and Stoett 2009). Over time it has evolved and changed so much that one cannot pinpoint a clear definition of terrorism. It is argued that terrorists target civilians with the intent to incite fear in the general population for political or religious purposes (Imre et al. 2008). The consistency upon all forms of terrorist acts is in its intent to impose violence and harm to civilians rather than to governments to achieve their goals. There are many factors that contribute to the existence of terrorism, the most significant of which include: psychological, ideological, religious, nationalist, and discriminatory factors (Sens and Stoett 2009). Regardless of what causes terrorism, one can argue that the prevalence of terrorism has grown considerably over the past few decades. The driving force for this increase in terrorism has been through globalization, which has allowed terrorist attacks to escape national boundaries. Today, terrorism can start in one country and end in another. The advancement and globalization of technology has increased the influence of terrorism to an international level. International relations between states and counterterrorism strategies are needed now more than ever to combat terrorism. Globalization has advanced technology, creating increased and more accessible means of communication in the global community. Zachary Fenell says that the increase of electronic communication has helped to eliminate time and distance as obstacles to communication. This has been beneficial to many parts of society, including business, education and international relationships (Fenell 2011). This has benefitted both terrorists and those who want to fight terrorism.
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