COURSE DESCRIPTION
This doctoral‑level course provides a rigorous, multidisciplinary examination of the phenomenon of terrorism and the range of state and international responses to it. Students will critically analyze the contested definitions, historical evolution, root causes, and strategic logic of terrorism, as well as the legal, ethical, and operational dimensions of counter‑terrorism. Key topics include the conceptual debates surrounding “terrorism” as a category of political violence; the drivers of radicalisation and recruitment; the organisational structures, financing, and tactics of terrorist groups (including jihadist, far‑right, and ethno‑nationalist movements); the evolution of counter‑terrorism strategies (from military and law enforcement approaches to “Prevent” and community‑based initiatives); the legal framework governing the use of force, targeted killings, and detention; and the role of intelligence, cybersecurity, and international cooperation. The course integrates insights from political science, criminology, international law, psychology, and security studies, preparing students to lead research and policy in counter‑terrorism.
COURSE TEACHING OBJECTIVES
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Analyze the conceptual and definitional debates surrounding terrorism and distinguish it from other forms of political violence.
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Evaluate the historical evolution of terrorism and the major theoretical approaches to explaining its causes.
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Assess the organisational dynamics, financing, and tactical choices of contemporary terrorist groups.
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Critically examine the full spectrum of counter‑terrorism strategies, including military, intelligence, legal, and preventive measures.
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Synthesize knowledge to formulate evidence‑based counter‑terrorism policies that balance security, human rights, and long‑term conflict transformation.
COURSE STUDENT LEARNING OUTCOMES
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
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Articulate the key definitional debates in terrorism studies and apply them to case analyses.
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Explain the major theoretical frameworks (rational choice, political, psychological, structural) for understanding why groups and individuals resort to terrorism.
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Identify the strengths and limitations of different counter‑terrorism approaches in various contexts.
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Critique the legal and ethical implications of counter‑terrorism policies (e.g., targeted killings, surveillance, detention).
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Design an original research proposal or policy analysis addressing a contemporary counter‑terrorism challenge.
ORGANIZATION OF COURSE STUDIES
The course is organized into five study periods (typically 2 weeks each, though self‑paced). Each period includes intensive reading of the assigned textbook, viewing of the supplementary video, and a short response paper or ethical analysis (500–1,000 words) reflecting on the material and its application. Students must contact the instructor for feedback after each period.