Perspectives on Terrorism

Module Four: Written Assignment

Do terrorists possess a "special psycho-logic," as Jerrold Post and David Whittaker believe?

Presented by Yann Lebeau

April, 8, 2013

Course: Perspectives on Terrorism

After studying through class material and critically thinking about the psychology of a terrorist, it is clear that the answer in itself is far more complex than previously assumed. Jerrold Post and David Whittaker make an argument that terrorists possess a “special psycho-logic”, in many cases, this may be true. A main reason as to why there is no global answer to debunking terrorist behavior is because there is are too many fine lines that separate a terrorist from other criminals. Most research conducted on terrorist behavior, according to Brynjar, is ideologically biased, and incomplete (Brynjar,2005). Post and Whittaker attempt to explain that terrorist behavior is caused by a Psycho-logic, in which they firmly have valid arguments.

The theory behind Whittaker’s ‘Psycho-logic’ belief is that of a resembling traditional belief where society directly impacts and individual to make them adopt a terrorist logic. Whittaker’s theory is divided into two categories in which he argues as ‘setting the stage’ for terrorism. Post’s theory corresponds with Whittakers’ and argues that the process of becoming a terrorist is summed by contextual factors as well as Psycho-Dynamic scrutiny.

Whittaker claims that Urban living and its’ lack of sophisticated networking are the roots to a terrorists’ motivation(Whittaker, 2005). In other words, he argues that urban living is destructive and constructive. This point argues that urban complexity is the backbone that leaves individuals vulnerable and discontent, often depriving. He says “ factors that frequenltly lead to growing dissatisfaction, an ingrained sense of grievance, feelings of victimization; may-be heightened because of a lack of opportunity for the inflicted minority, often young and well educated” (Whittaker,...