166-216 Terrorism: Shifting Paradigms

Usually 25 points of first-year subjects in Sociology, Political Science or related discipline.

Through case studies and theoretical analyses, this subject examines social processes involved in the rise, decline and transformation of different forms of terrorism, with particular reference to the student movement (Red Brigade, Weathermen); national movements (ETA, PLO); communitarian terrorism (Hezbollah, Hamas); populist terrorism (American Militias); narcoterrorism (Sendero Luminoso); sects and terrorism (Aum Shinrikyo); the shift from 'international' to global terrorism (deterritorialised/diasporic networks - Al Qaeda). The subject explores theoretical approaches to changing paradigms of terrorism; the privatisation and deterritorialisation of violence; secrecy, the sacred and the social; forms of subjectivity evident in emerging martyrdom terrorism; violence as communication; the relationship between terrorism and religious and fundamentalist movements; the role of criminal networks and the media; the relationship between terrorism, modernity and globalization. The subject examines what, if anything, the different terrorist projects explored have in common. On completion students should have an understanding of key dimensions of contemporary terrorism, in particular as both a product of and generator of contemporary globalization.

• demonstrate critical thinking and analytic skills, through research and written communication;

• be able to communicate knowledge intelligibly and economically, both orally and in writing;

• display awareness and understanding of the social, ethical and cultural contexts of research and of our place as researchers.

Analysis/presentation of primary source material of 1000 words 25% (due early in semester), a class test of 1000 words 25% (due at the end of semester) and a research essay of 2000 words 50% (due during the examination period).

A subject reader will be available.