The War on Terror: The Ineffective Use of Violence in Isolation as a Method of Countering Terrorism
Esther Hoffman
The topic I chose to research for my ISU was the War on Terror. I chose this topic so I could get a better understanding of war and the choices many governments make that I do not agree with. My paper focuses on how the use of violence in isolation when combatting terrorism is ineffective. Many examples from the past and present are used to show how violence alone is not a productive way in countering terror, but often causes a surge in terrorist activity by organizations around the world. The ISU provides an extensive historical background of terrorism – both international and domestic. It also explains the deeper meaning behind terrorism and explores the reasons that governments to choose violence over other methods. Further explaining the current War on Terror, Nigeria, Afghanistan and the Philippines are investigated to see their counter-terror procedures and whether they are effective. It is concluded by providing resolutions to the issue, focusing on long-term solutions as a priority. Though Islamic terrorism is the focus of my ISU, it is understood that terrorism is not linked to one religion or ideology.