The Question
The main question you will be asked to find an answer for is:
Question: What is terrorism? Is there such a thing as a 'just cause?'
Task: As a team you will survey a collection of definitions, then apply what you have learned to individual examples (or cases) of terrorism. Finally, through a group process, you will evaluate this range of real life cases to decide what terrorism is exactly and if it is ever justified and if so, under what conditions.
Background Information
Before becoming an expert on one example of a 'Terrorist' act, let's learn how some experts define it. Use the links below to choose or create a definition of 'Terrorism' that everyone on your team agrees with. Then move onto your individual roles.
Important points to make sure you consider in the definition you choose or create are:
1. Does it matter if the victims are soldiers or civilians?
2. Does it matter if the act happens on military or public areas?
3. Does it matter if it happens during war or peacetime?
4. Does it matter if the act is performed for a good cause?
5. How do you define a good cause?
6. Does it matter if those responsible for the attacks are oppressed and are prevented from enjoying their basic human rights?
7. Can governments perform acts of terror or only non-government groups?
8. Does the threat of attack qualify as 'terrorism' or must the attack actually take place?
9. What are the differences between acts of war and acts of terrorism?
Make sure your definition can address these questions. The links below offer many ideas and perspectives, many which agree in some areas and disagree in others.
Use the attached worksheet OR download a Definition Worksheet from the class website
CATEGORY 1 [Walter]
Towards a Definition of Terrorism
Ayatullah Shaykh Muhammad 'Ali Taskhiri - Vol V No. 1 (Muharram 1408 AH/1987 CE)
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CATEGORY 2 [Amelia]
The definition of terrorism - from the Guardian Unlimited
Raises many questions about the US state department's definition
Definition of Terrorism - from About.com
Very brief definition offered by one individual
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CATEGORY 3 [Cyrus]
FREEDOM FIGHTER: Dictionary Entry and Meaning - from hyperdictionary
Dictionary definition
TERRORISTS AND FREEDOM FIGHTERS - from the CBC News
Provides a comprehensive overview of the implications and the media's use of the word.