SOS-440: TERRORISM
Module 1—Definitions and Historical Perspective
OBJECTIVES
After successfully completing Module 1, you should be able to:
● Identify the nature of violence we conceive of as “terrorism.”
● Describe intricacies associated with the concept of “terrorism.”
● Describe the political implications stemming from the elusiveness of this concept.
● Recall the origins of the practice of terrorism.
● Summarize the various forms of terrorism throughout much of history.
● Describe early manifestations of terrorism in the U.S.
STUDY MATERIALS
Textbook Readings
● Combs, Terrorism in the Twenty-First Century
○ Chapter 1: “An Idea Whose Time Has Come?”
● Mahan and Griset, Terrorism in Perspective
○ Chapter 2: “History of Terrorism”
● Simonsen and Spindlove, Terrorism Today: The Past, The Players, The Future
○ Chapter 1: “In Search of a Definition for Terrorism”
○ Chapter 2: “A Brief History of Terrorism”
Suggested Websites
● International Terrorism and Security Research
● CIA War on Terrorism FAQs
● Terrorism Definitions
ACTIVITIES
Module 1 has three activities. Please consult the Course Calendar for the due dates.
Introductions Forum
In the Introductions Forum, please address any of the following topics or anything about yourself that you
would like to share with the class so that we can get to know you better.
● Your reasons for taking this course
● Your interest in terrorism
● Your background in general
● Your experience with online learning
● Your expectations from this course
Note: The Introductions Forum is not graded but required.
Discussion Forum 1
In Discussion Forum 1, post your response to the following discussion topic. Reply to at least two
classmates’ responses by the date indicated in the Course Calendar.
Select one definition from our readings for the concept of “terrorism” and explain why
you find this particular definition most appropriate.
Written Assignment 1
Why has it been so difficult to define the concept of “terrorism?”
Respond by describing contrasting perceptions regarding an event some call “terrorism.” Your answer
should not exceed 500 words (about two double-spaced, typed pages).