Root Causes of Terrorism

I’ve been examining possible root causes of terrorism for some time, starting with my role in a US Army counter-terrorism Unit, some 30 years ago. The subject is hugely complex and broad reaching, affecting virtually every country in the world. My intent in this posting is to stimulate readers to think in something more than binary modes of good vs evil.

It can be suggested that terrorism has been part of the human condition throughout recorded history. Tribe against tribe, country against country, clan against clan, religion against religion, spouse against spouse, gang against gang, etc.. Inducing fear in the opposition via all manner of aggression, often resulting in ‘collateral damage’ to innocent bystanders, was/is central in the tactics employed. As in war, the worse in human behavior becomes manifest in terrorist actions, subordinating chances for reasonable conflict resolution efforts. Terrorism can be said to be extreme responses to extreme conditions/beliefs.

While Islam, and its extreme factions are often held as primary perpetrators of modern-day terrorist acts, it behooves all of us to examine how our personal beliefs, values and behaviors might contribute to conditions which ‘grow’ separation and ultimately terrorism, both locally and globally. And, what interventions might interrupt its growth?

I’d like to posit three contributing pieces to the development of terrorism, holding implications for belief and behavioral change, know full well the existence of many more. First, it seems that terrorism foments in the space of exclusive thinking……’my religion/race/group/country/clan is the only way or the right way or the right one.’ Before the world became smaller and more inter-connected, the fallout of exclusive thinking tended to remain local. Colonialism, Wars, The Crusades, rendered residue that actually fuel modern day extremism. Bottom line, when groups hold on to exclusive, vs inclusive ideologies/beliefs, there is little room to share common denominators which foster mutual support, and where rational tactics can be employed in respecting differences and resolving issues of conflict.

Secondly, estrangement from the larger society often fosters gravitation toward fringe or counter-culture elements. The more citizens experience membership and participation in societal work and living, wherein productivity and value is resident, less likely are the chances for straying to fringe groups. Support for productive citizen involvement emanates from family, school and civic resources.

Thirdly, unfair and unequal distribution of wealth can separate citizenry into haves and have not groupings, often seeding rebellious responses. Again, separation and estrangement can develop, leaving room for other forms of affiliation and behavior, including terrorist groups.

So what is one to do in responding to terrorism emanating from extremism?

* Defusing Terrorism Options

Advance commerce opportunities

Avoid military occupations of countries

Expand potential for religious inclusiveness

Employ ‘reason’ in reframing Values and Beliefs

Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God…But I say to you that listen, Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who abuse you. If anyone strikes you on the cheek, offer the other also; and from anyone who takes away your coat do not withhold even your shirt. Give to everyone who begs from you; and if anyone takes away your goods, do not ask for them again. Do to others as you would have them do to you.

- Matthew 5:9; Luke 6:27-31