The Terrorism Ahead: Confronting Transnational Violence in the Twenty-first Century

Paul J. Smith

Jan 2008 · M.E. Sharpe

About this ebook

Written for students and general readers, this accessible book examines the evolving threat of terrorism and draws on the latest research to assess future trends. The author assumes that terrorism will remain a potent threat to the international system throughout the twenty-first century, primarily because of the convergence of two negative trends: the availability of Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear Weapons (CBRN)--also known as Weapons of Mass Destruction--and the proliferation of terrorist organizations seeking to achieve mass casualties.

The book surveys specific aspects of contemporary terrorism, including political, social, economic, religious, and ideological factors, globalization as a stimulant to contemporary terrorism, the role of organized crime in terrorist movements, and more. Written with students in college and professional programs in mind, the book includes case studies interspersed throughout the chapters that provide clarifying examples.