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Terrorism

Definition

Terrorism is the use of violence or threat of violence by non-state actors against civilians with an aim to create fear or achieve political goals.

Analogy

Imagine you're playing a game where everyone has agreed on rules. But then someone decides not only to break those rules but also threatens others if they don't play according to their new rules. That's what terrorism does - it breaks established norms for political gain through intimidation.

Related terms

Insurgency: An active revolt or uprising against a recognized authority (like a government) by a group not recognized as having belligerent status.

Radicalization: The process by which individuals come to adopt increasingly extreme political, social or religious ideals and aspirations that reject status quo.

Counterterrorism: Policies or actions taken by governments or organizations aimed at preventing or responding to terrorism.

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AP® and SAT® are trademarks registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse this website.