The Anatomy of Terrorism

Parts · in order of publication

1. 01

   What Is Terror and Who Is a Terrorist?

   After Hamas’s attack in October 2023 and Israel’s response in Gaza, each side declared the other terrorist. What is terror, and who is a terrorist? There is still no common international definition.

   Erdal Turna · 29 November 2023 · 4 min read

   
2. 02

   The Unchanging Elements of Terrorism

   Geography, ideology and method may change, but some elements of terrorism never do: violence, the targeting of civilians and the aim of achieving political results through fear.

   Erdal Turna · 8 December 2023 · 9 min read

   
3. 03

   The Changing Elements of Terrorism

   From nationalist independence movements to ideological organisations, from religious extremism to environmental radicals: how have the aims, methods and sources of finance of terrorism changed over a century?

   Erdal Turna · 15 December 2023 · 9 min read

   
4. 04

   State Terrorism and State-Sponsored Terrorism

   Terrorism does not always come from independent organisations. States too have backed terrorist groups for strategic gain or carried out terrorist acts themselves. State-sponsored terrorism from Afghanistan to Lockerbie.

   Erdal Turna · 22 December 2023 · 7 min read

   
5. 05

   A Projection of the Future of Terrorism

   Some elements of terrorism never change, but technology, the climate crisis and proxy wars keep it evolving. The last article in the “Anatomy of Terrorism” series offers predictions for the future.

   Erdal Turna · 29 December 2023 · 3 min read