From Rebels to Radicals: The Strategy of Terror

Course Description

What is terrorism? Who does it? And how is it stopped? This mini course explores topics related to organized political violence and the global war on terror. Over four days, students will learn what it is that distinguishes terrorists from freedom fighters from rebels, as well as the importance of those distinctions. Discussions will touch on the gendered nature of terrorism, with an exploration of women’s varying roles in violent nonstate actor organizations. In pairs or groups, students will present a terrorist group of their choosing to the class. These presentations are intended to develop students’ research abilities while offering examples of the various forms of organized political violence (e.g. ecoterrorism, jihadism, white nationalism, and Christian extremism).

The subject matter of this course is sensitive. The course is designed to raise awareness of the dangers of radicalization and ideologically motivated violence. Students will analyze the radicalization process and familiarize themselves with the warning signs. Discussions will explore individuals’ motivations for participating in violent extremism and why deradicalization can be hard.

Popular news media often sensationalizes terrorists, heightening public fear of these seemingly unpredictable violent acts. This mini course aims to demystify political violence and offer hope for a more peaceful future. Students will learn about national counterterrorism policies and deradicalization programs, as well as coordinated international efforts in these areas. The War on Terror has not been waged through military force alone - there are various careers in the field of counterterrorism beyond military service. Discussions will explore the role of government, public servants, and academics in combating violent extremism. It is the hope of the course instructors that students will be encouraged to continue engaging in the field of counterterrorism by showing them all the ways in which they could do so.

Mandatory attendance is required on May 8th, as students will participate in a full-day simulation. The crisis simulation will explore the societal impacts of terrorism. Divided into three groups (government, terrorist organization, and public/media) students will respond to unfolding events introduced by the instructors. Each round challenges participants to strategize, negotiate, and react in real time, offering insight into how political violence, state response, and public perception interact. This immersive exercise encourages critical thinking, ethical reflection, and collaborative problem-solving in a safe, structured environment.