(= C EMH 460) Terrorism and Counter-Terrorism

Catalog description

In this course we focus on the phenomena of terrorism, and how societies and governments respond to it. Most modern societies have dealt with political violence targeting civilians in order to change or shape public policy, economic, or social systems, through intimidation. These societies have responded in a host of different ways. Some have responded with draconian security measures, others with negotiation or policies that have increased political participation and representation; some have used diplomacy, some law enforcement, and some their militaries. Throughout this semester, I will ask you to explore a number of the seminal works by influential scholars who examine terrorism and counter terrorism regarding the nature of terrorism and terrorists, how governments and societies respond to such attacks, and how these approaches differ across borders and sectors. The texts and assorted readings will challenge you to not default to just the US approach to counterterrorism, but to explore the merit and wisdom of alternative approaches adopted around the world. Only one version may be taken for credit. Prerequisite(s): C EHC 101 and CEMH 309 OR permission of instructor.