Violent extremism and terrorism: conceptual and normative limitations

Abstract

Terror is a weapon that has been widely used throughout history, whether for military, strategic, political or ideological purposes. Of Latin origin, this term, although dear to international relations, derives from a relevant and difficult-to-define theme: terrorism. In order to conceptualize it, we initially sought answers in its different guises in space-time. In order to analyze the phenomenon of modern terrorism historically, we will base ourselves on the assumptions of David C. Rapoport, based on the four waves of terrorism. From the perspective that waves are cycles of activity, characterized by their expansion and contraction in a given period. In common, these waves have international characteristics, occurring in different countries, and are differentiated by marking "the predominant energy that shapes the participating groups"9 , they are: anarchist, anti-colonialist, new left and religious. It is worth noting that the waves are made up of organizations, but there is a big difference between the rhythms of the two, and one organization can even extend into other waves.

DOI:https://doi.org/10.56238/sevenIIImulti2023-216