131-225 Terrorism in Modern Conflict

Usually 25 points of first year history, see Prerequisites.

This subject will analyse the historical significance of '9/11' and the Bali bombing. Students will look at attempts to define and deal with 'terrorism' in the context of conflict in the Middle East, Northern Ireland, Chechnya, Sri Lanka and the post-September 11 'war on terror'. There will be an emphasis on the ways in which terror has been developed as a weapon of attack and used by state and non-state actors as a central element of modern conflict. What is the difference between national and global terrorism? How do local conflicts enter the theatre of world politics in the contemporary period? What is the role of the mass media in this process? Students will be encouraged to investigate these questions in a variety of modern historical contexts.

• demonstrate research skills through competent use of the library and other information sources;

• show critical thinking and analysis through recommended reading, essay writing and tutorial discussion, and by determining the strength of an argument;

• demonstrate understanding of social, ethical and cultural context through the contextualisation of judgements, developing a critical self-awareness, being open to new ideas and possibilities and by constructing an argument;

• be able to communicate knowledge intelligibly and economically through essay writing and tutorial discussion.

A reflective essay of 2000 words 45% (due mid-semester), a research assignment of 2000 words 45% (due at the end of semester) and class participation 10%.

A subject reader will be available.