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Daniel Byman,
Christine Fair,
Bruce Hoffman,
Paul Pillar,
and
Jordan Abu-Sirriya
Terrorism has gone from a persistent yet marginal security concern to one of the most important security problems of our day. There are few countries that do not suffer from some form of terrorism. Though many attempts at terrorism fail, some groups wage lengthy and bloody campaigns and, in exceptional cases, kill hundreds or even thousands in pursuit of their ends.
Read more
Terrorism has gone from a persistent yet marginal security concern to one of the most important security problems of our day. There are few countries that do not suffer from some form of terrorism. Though many attempts at terrorism fail, some groups wage lengthy and bloody campaigns and, in exceptional cases, kill hundreds or even thousands in pursuit of their ends.
Read more
Terrorism has gone from a persistent yet marginal security concern to one of the most important security problems of our day. There are few countries that do not suffer from some form of terrorism. Though many attempts at terrorism fail, some groups wage lengthy and bloody campaigns and, in exceptional cases, kill hundreds or even thousands in pursuit of their ends.
This course on terrorism will explore the nuances involved in defining terrorism; the nature of Al Qaeda, the Islamic State, and other important groups; the effectiveness of different counterterrorism tools; terrorist recruiting, counterterrorism and the rule of law; the political context in the Middle East; and the terrorist use of technology.
For those interested in a more extended version of the course, the full 7-section course Terrorism and Counterterrorism is available here.
Register for this course and see more details by visiting:
OpenCourser.com/course/phbm8w/terrorism
What's inside
Learning objectives
- Recall the working definitions of terrorism and recognize their analytic limits
- Identify a range of causes of terrorism
- Understand the strategies and tactics of terrorist groups such as al qaedaand the islamic state
- Understand how counterterrorism is constrained in a democratic society and several important legal debates related to counterterrorism
- Recall the working definitions of terrorism and recognize their analytic limits
- Identify a range of causes of terrorism
- Understand the strategies and tactics of terrorist groups such as al qaedaand the islamic state
- Understand how counterterrorism is constrained in a democratic society and several important legal debates related to counterterrorism
Traffic lights
Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause and
possible dealbreakers
Explores terrorism, which is a pressing security issue in today's society
Taught by experienced professionals in the field, including Daniel Byman, Christine Fair, Bruce Hoffman, Paul Pillar, and Jordan Abu-Sirriya
Examines different counterterrorism tools and their effectiveness, helping students develop a critical understanding of the subject
Discusses the political context of terrorism in the Middle East, providing insights into the complexities of the issue
Provides a comprehensive overview of terrorist recruiting and counterterrorism measures, giving learners a holistic understanding of the field
Includes a more extended 7-section version of the course for those seeking a deeper understanding of terrorism and counterterrorism
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Reviews summary
Foundational introduction to terrorism and counterterrorism
According to learners, this course offers a clear and concise introduction to the complex topics of terrorism and counterterrorism. Students praise the expert instruction from Georgetown University, finding the content engaging and accessible for beginners. The course provides a solid foundational overview covering key definitions, causes, major groups like Al Qaeda and ISIS, and important considerations regarding counterterrorism within a democratic framework, including legal aspects. While some note that it remains introductory and lacks depth for advanced learners, the consensus is that it serves as an excellent starting point for understanding the subject.
Covers broad topics but lacks deep dives.
"It gives a good overview of key concepts but don't expect in-depth analysis."
"The course is introductory, providing breadth over depth on various aspects."
"Useful for understanding the basics, though those with prior knowledge might find it too general."
Covers key groups and legal aspects.
"Appreciated the sections on specific groups like Al Qaeda and ISIS."
"The discussion on counterterrorism and the rule of law was particularly insightful."
"Covers relevant, up-to-date information on current threats and responses."
Excellent first course on the subject.
"Highly recommended for anyone wanting to learn about terrorism for the first time."
"This course was exactly what I needed to begin my understanding of this field."
"A solid foundation if you plan to delve deeper into the subject later."
Instruction is knowledgeable and engaging.
"The lecturer was engaging and really knew their stuff, making complex topics accessible..."
"Dr. Pillar is an excellent professor with deep knowledge of the subject matter."
"Enjoyed the instructor's lectures; they were informative and well-delivered."
Provides a solid, easy-to-grasp foundation.
"The course provides a very clear introduction to the subject of terrorism and counterterrorism."
"I found the explanations very clear and the course was a great starting point for understanding the basics."
"Excellent course for beginners, presenting complex information in an understandable way."
Activities
Be better prepared
before
your course. Deepen your understanding
during
and
after
it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered
in Terrorism and Counterterrorism: An Introduction with these
activities:
Follow tutorials on 'Countering Terrorist Financing' from the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC)
Show steps
Acquire practical knowledge on methods to combat terrorist financing.
Browse courses on
Money Laundering
Show steps
-
Access the UNODC website and locate the tutorials.
-
Follow the instructions and complete the interactive exercises.
Review 'Terrorism: A New Grand Strategy' by Bruce Riedel
Show steps
Gain a comprehensive understanding of terrorism from a renowned expert.
View
Kings and Presidents
on Amazon
Show steps
-
Read the introduction and first three chapters to understand the scope and key concepts.
-
Summarize the key arguments and evidence presented in each chapter.
Attend a workshop on 'Counterterrorism Best Practices'
Show steps
Gain practical insights from experts in counterterrorism policy and operations.
Show steps
-
Identify and register for a relevant workshop.
-
Actively participate and engage with speakers and participants.
Two other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all five activities
Complete practice exercises on 'Identifying and Analyzing Terrorist Propaganda'
Show steps
Develop critical skills in analyzing and countering terrorist propaganda.
Browse courses on
Radicalization
Show steps
-
Access online databases or resources with sample terrorist propaganda.
-
Practice identifying key characteristics and themes.
Write a position paper on 'The Role of Technology in Modern Terrorism'
Show steps
Deepen your understanding of the impact of technology on contemporary terrorism.
Show steps
-
Research the use of technology by terrorist groups.
-
Analyze the implications of technology on counterterrorism strategies.
-
Develop a position on the future role of technology in terrorism.
Follow tutorials on 'Countering Terrorist Financing' from the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC)
Show steps
Acquire practical knowledge on methods to combat terrorist financing.
Browse courses on
Money Laundering
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Access the UNODC website and locate the tutorials.
- Follow the instructions and complete the interactive exercises.
Review 'Terrorism: A New Grand Strategy' by Bruce Riedel
Show steps
Gain a comprehensive understanding of terrorism from a renowned expert.
View
Kings and Presidents
on Amazon
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Read the introduction and first three chapters to understand the scope and key concepts.
- Summarize the key arguments and evidence presented in each chapter.
Attend a workshop on 'Counterterrorism Best Practices'
Show steps
Gain practical insights from experts in counterterrorism policy and operations.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify and register for a relevant workshop.
- Actively participate and engage with speakers and participants.
Two other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all five activities
Complete practice exercises on 'Identifying and Analyzing Terrorist Propaganda'
Show steps
Develop critical skills in analyzing and countering terrorist propaganda.
Browse courses on
Radicalization
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Access online databases or resources with sample terrorist propaganda.
- Practice identifying key characteristics and themes.
Write a position paper on 'The Role of Technology in Modern Terrorism'
Show steps
Deepen your understanding of the impact of technology on contemporary terrorism.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Research the use of technology by terrorist groups.
- Analyze the implications of technology on counterterrorism strategies.
- Develop a position on the future role of technology in terrorism.
Career center
Learners who complete Terrorism and Counterterrorism: An Introduction will develop knowledge and skills
that may be useful to these careers:
Intelligence Analyst
Intelligence Analyst
As an Intelligence Analyst, you will provide advisory support to policymakers, providing data to enhance national security and safety. This course will help you understand the strategies and tactics of terrorist groups and get a better understanding for how counterterrorism is constrained in a democratic society. This knowledge is sought out by employers as terrorism is a pressing national concern that requires vigilance and preparation.
Lawyer
Lawyer
As a Lawyer, you will be defending clients in cases related to terrorism or representing governments in counterterrorism efforts. This course will help build a foundation for understanding the legal debates related to counterterrorism and could be particularly useful for immigration lawyers who handle asylum cases.
Cybersecurity Analyst
Cybersecurity Analyst
As a Cybersecurity Analyst, you will use your knowledge of the ways that terrorist groups have used and continue to use technology to prevent future attacks. This course will teach you about the terrorist use of technology, as well as providing you with a general understanding of terrorism tactics and counterterrorism strategies.
Security Consultant
Security Consultant
As a Security Consultant, you will work to design and implement security measures for various clients. This course will sharpen your understanding of terrorist tactics, as well as providing an introduction to counterterrorism strategy.
Policy Advisor
Policy Advisor
As a Policy Advisor, you will research and analyze policy issues related to terrorism and national security. This course will help build a foundation for understanding the causes of terrorism and the strategies and tactics of terrorist groups, as well as the effectiveness of different counterterrorism tools.
Journalist
Journalist
As a Journalist, you may write about topics related to terrorism and national security. This course may be useful for building a foundation for understanding the causes of terrorism and the strategies and tactics of terrorist groups, as well as the effectiveness of different counterterrorism tools.
Political Scientist
Political Scientist
As a Political Scientist, you will study terrorism and counterterrorism to better understand domestic and international security issues. This course, in particular, may be useful for understanding the political context in the Middle East.
Anthropologist
Anthropologist
As an Anthropologist, you may study terrorism and counterterrorism to better understand the cultural and social factors that influence these phenomena. This course may be useful for understanding the causes of terrorism and the strategies and tactics of terrorist groups.
Professor
Professor
As a Professor of political science, history, or national security, you may teach and conduct research on terrorism and counterterrorism. This course will help build a foundation for understanding the current issues in terrorism and counterterrorism that you may teach.
Intelligence Officer
Intelligence Officer
As an Intelligence Officer, you may be responsible for collecting, analyzing, and disseminating information related to terrorism and counterterrorism. This course will help build a foundation for understanding this complex field and may provide particularly useful information about the political context in the Middle East.
Military Officer
Military Officer
As a Military Officer, you may be responsible for leading and directing counterterrorism operations. This course may be useful for understanding the strategies and tactics of terrorist groups, as well as the effectiveness of different counterterrorism tools.
FBI Agent
FBI Agent
As an FBI Agent, you will investigate terrorism-related crimes. This course will provide you with a foundation for understanding the causes of terrorism, the strategies and tactics of terrorist groups, and the effectiveness of different counterterrorism tools.
Homeland Security Officer
Homeland Security Officer
As a Homeland Security Officer, you will protect the United States from terrorism and other threats. This course will provide you with a foundation for understanding the causes of terrorism, the strategies and tactics of terrorist groups, and the effectiveness of different counterterrorism tools.
Crime Analyst
Crime Analyst
As a Crime Analyst, you will use your knowledge of terrorism and counterterrorism to help law enforcement agencies prevent and investigate crimes. This course may be useful for understanding the strategies and tactics of terrorist groups and how counterterrorism is constrained in a democratic society.
Corrections Officer
Corrections Officer
As a Corrections Officer, you may work in a prison or jail that houses inmates convicted of terrorism-related crimes. This course may help you understand the motivations and behaviors of these inmates and provide insight into the challenges of counterterrorism.
For more career information including salaries, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/phbm8w/terrorism
Reading list
We've selected nine books
that we think will supplement your
learning. Use these to
develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a
deeper understanding of the topics covered in
Terrorism and Counterterrorism: An Introduction.
Edited by Max Taylor and Rohan Gunaratna, this handbook provides a comprehensive overview of terrorism, exploring different aspects of terrorism, including its causes, strategies, and tactics, as well as counterterrorism measures.
Charles Townshend's book presents a clear and concise overview of terrorism, essential concepts and definitions, different types of terrorism and the role of religion and ideology in terrorism.
Provides a comprehensive overview of terrorism and counterterrorism, including the history of terrorism, different types of terrorism, and the challenges in countering terrorism.
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of terrorism, including its definitions, history, causes, and consequences.
Provides a comprehensive overview of terrorism, including its definitions, history, causes, and consequences.
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of terrorism and insurgency, including its definitions, history, causes, and consequences.
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of terrorism and counterterrorism, including its definitions, history, causes, and consequences.
Examines the relationship between terrorism and development, exploring how poverty, inequality, and social injustice can contribute to the rise of terrorism.
Provides a comprehensive overview of terrorism, including its definitions, history, causes, and consequences.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/phbm8w/terrorism
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Rating
2.0
Effort
8 to 10 hours per week for 3 weeks
Level
Introductory
Via
edX
Institution
Georgetown University
Instructors
Daniel Byman
Christine Fair
Bruce Hoffman
Paul Pillar
Jordan Abu-Sirriya
Language
English
Transcript
English
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