Does terrorism work?:
Sadly, yes:
This paper examines whether terrorism is an effective tool to achieve political goals. By exploiting variation in terror attacks over time and across locations in Israel from 1988 to 2006, we show that local terror attacks cause Israelis to be: (i) more willing to grant territorial concessions to the Palestinians; (ii) more willing to accept a Palestinian state; (iii) and less likely to identify oneself as being right-wing. These effects are especially pronounced within demographic groups that are traditionally right-wing in their political views. However, terror attacks beyond a certain threshold are less effective, and may reach levels which cause Israelis to adopt a less-accommodating position. In addition, we show that terror induces Israelis to vote increasingly for right-wing parties, as the right-wing parties move to the left in response to terror. Hence, terrorism appears to be an effective strategy in terms of shifting the entire Israeli political landscape to the left. These findings may shed light on the causes underlying the spread of global terrorism in the last few decades.
Source: "Does Terrorism Work?" from Centre for Economic Policy Research
This is very disturbing news. From an influence standpoint, terrorism works and the US campaign against terrorism clearly doesn't. We've incited more anger around the world than won people to our side -- which is why we fight alone now. Extrapolating from this, I don't like what I see. Our current course of action pushes our allies away and gives America a negative image on the world stage. Meanwhile, increasing terrorist attacks could create a more sympathetic view of terrorists and concessions, encouraging more terrorism. I don't have all the answers. Are we handling this the right way?
If you're curious about terrorism, I recommend this book.
Why you don't need to worry about dying in a terrorist attack
How to guarantee your luggage won't be lost or stolen next time you fly
The psychological profile of a terrorist
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