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Terrorism Theorists 101

2008 Jun 8 Posted by Joseph Pascarella

Two preeminent and respected scholars in the United States, Dr. Bruce Hoffman and Dr. Marc Sageman are apparently in disagreement regarding the structure and development of terror cells and terror organizations. Both scholars have diverse and expert backgrounds and have conducted significant research on terrorists, terror cells, and terror organizations.

The disagreement between these two scholars is healthy for public safety in that numerous perspectives are required. Additionally, contemporary threats are continuously changing in that what may have been the structure or tactics several years ago may have changed. These threats are continuously evolving. Ideally, scholars, and practitioners in can arrive at a consensus based on this considerable amount of research.

Take care and stay safe.

Joe Pascarella

June 8, 2008 | Filed under: Capella, Capella University, Law enforcement, New York Times, Public Safety Signals, online college, online degrees, online university, terror, terrorism, violence
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2 Responses to “Terrorism Theorists 101”

Mark S. Warnick Says:

I read this article with great concern, and I can say nothing less than what a load of horse-hockey! To paraphrase a key portion, Dr. Sageman says that “leaderless groups” and “groups of guys” pose no real threat. Not only do I disagree but I stalwartly disagree.

Has it been so long ago that we have forgotten about Alfred P Murrah Federal building in Oklahoma City? Have we become complacent since Timothy McVeigh (the bomber), and his accomplice Terry Nichols did this reprehensible deed? Weren’t these a group of two men rather than an organized terrorist cell?

Before comments are made that these were domestic terrorists, we need to remember terrorists are terrorists, the end results are the same. The same principle can be said for Al-Qaeda or any other terrorist group or independent cell.
If they want to get into the borders of the United States they can, and relatively easy and inexpensive.

Once in the United States, a three or four person team from any country can cause mass destruction; however do they need to be within the borders? No, terrorists do not to be within our borders. There are plenty of United States interests around the world that would make much easier target.

I personally have given congressional briefings and been a consultant to some of those in the Department of Homeland Security. I always have, and most likely always will have a fear of the small, non-organized cells, and I have flagrantly voiced that opinion. These independent cells are substantially more dangerous just from the sheer fact that not only could they have the capability, but it would be so much easier to go undetected. If the cell is small enough, and not part of an organized team, it is substantially more difficult to detect them. They would have no chatter of they were self contained.

Perhaps I am being overly cautious, but I thought that was supposed to be what we in public safety do, be proactive rather than reactive. I personally will be proactive and go the extra mile, and I hope most, if not all, of you will as well, … Mark

Mark S. Warnick

June 15th, 2008 at 2:40 pm

Joseph Pascarella Says:

Mark,

Thanks for the post and you make some very good points.

Joe

June 27th, 2008 at 5:23 am

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