PSC 407W - Terrorism

(3 units) CO11, CO13

Examination of different types of terrorism. Exploration of theories on the causes, motivations, strategies, outcomes, and ends of terrorism. Political impact of terrorism.

Prerequisite(s): General Education courses (CO1-CO3) completed; at least 3 courses from CO4-CO8 completed; Junior or Senior standing; PSC 211 or PSC 231.

Grading Basis: Graded
Units of Lecture: 3
Offered: Every Spring

Student Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:
1. define terrorism, suicide terrorism, and tactics, recognizing the inclusions and limitations of various definitional elements.
2. critically examine the complex nature of terrorism, including why individuals and groups use (or do not use) these tactics and why (or why not) societies support the use of terrorism.
3. identify existing gaps in the literature and research on terrorism.
4. analyze changes in the use of different tactics over time and the relevance of terrorism as part of a growing global problem through relevant scholarly literature.
5. evaluate competing explanations for the use of suicide tactics and the types of resources that are available to conduct research in this area.
6. recognize connections between geographically or politically distant places and periods with regard to the use of suicide tactics.
7. articulate and evaluate the connections between local, national and international actors, including governmental and non-governmental actors.
8. explain and apply key theories of comparative politics relevant to terrorism.

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