WMD Terrorism Research: Whereto from Here?

In: International studies review, Band 7, Heft 1, S. 140-143

Abstract

A forum contribution notes that the current literature on terrorism involving weapons of mass destruction (WMD) has reached a point where the same ideas are being recycled over and over again while original insights into WMD terrorism are becoming very rare. Although the fortunate absence of any actual WMD attacks by terrorists has kept research within the realm of the speculative, three suggestions are offered for broadening the research agenda. First, there is a need to operationalize WMD terrorism research by informing threat assessments. This can be accomplished by developing standardized methodologies for in-depth qualitative studies of extremist groups &/or synthesizing quantitative & qualitative studies in order to produce useful analytical tools. Second, there is a need for second-order analysis focused on such questions as when terrorists might be capable of using WMD to cause mass casualties & by what mechanisms such an attack might occur. The third area that needs exploration is the potential for & consequences of collaboration between terrorist groups. J. Lindroth