Theories of Terrorism: Instrumental and Organizational Approaches

Abstract

Two explanations for terrorist organizations' behavior are offered to determine the theoretical value of these notions & how different conceptualizations of terrorist activity influence policy making. Whereas the instrumental perspective perceives terrorism as an intentional activity designed to achieve a political objective that will benefit a terrorist organization, it is stated that the organizational approach views terrorism as behavior designed to perpetuate or promote a terrorist organization while providing certain incentives to group members. Examples of both types are provided. The impact that these perspectives have on government policy making & their theoretical advantages & shortcomings are explored. The implications of combining both conceptualizations of terrorist activity for future studies of terrorism are considered. J. W. Parker