Good Defining Terrorism Critical Thinking Example

Terrorism does not have a universally acceptable single definition primarily because of the varying interpretations, perceptions, and contexts. The differences in opinion and definitions exist due to the differences in analyzing the justification or validity of specific acts. Most organizations and countries define terrorism as acts of violence that primarily target unarmed populations with ulterior political motives. However, some individuals or groups may also regard many invasions or attacks by specific countries as acts of terrorism. Terrorism refers to the criminal or illegal actions of specific individuals or groups that aim to spread terror and fear among intended audiences. The terrorists spread fear usually through extreme acts of violence including mass killings, bombings, and suicide attacks. Some examples of terrorism under this definition include attacks on the world trade center, suicide bombings in Iraq, and mass killings in African nations. The attacks on various strategic and government installations in various countries including Iraq, Afghanistan, India, and Pakistan fall into the same category. However, the attacks on occupying military forces by the freedom fighters of a specific country do not fit into the provided definition of terrorism.
Individuals and analysts face difficulties in coining a single definition because certain individuals become freedom fighters for some individuals while another group of people labels them as terrorists. Certain strategists believe that religious fanaticism is terrorism while for certain people fighting against the religion is terrorism. Terrorism is a subjective scenario that varies from one culture to another culture. The upbringing and religious school of thoughts play an important role in this regard when people tend to define terrorism.

Reference

Hickman, D. J. (2011). Terrorism as a violation of the "law of nations:" Finally overcoming the definitional problem. Wisconsin International Law Journal, 29(3), 447-483.