TEXT:

Reading

1. Moral Psychology of Terrorism (2013) Introduction

2. Horgan, J. G. (2017). Psychology of terrorism: Introduction to the special issue. American Psychologist, 72(3), 199-204.

Original Question:

For this week's Forum, respond to the following: This week we consider the motivations for engaging in terrorist activities offered in our course materials.

Many considerations related to the motivations leading to acts of terrorism have been suggested. French philosopher Jean Paul Sartre advanced the position of mankind's fundamental choice, in essence one has the presence of mind when deciding to actively participate in terrorist acts.

Sigmund Freud's structure of mind theory may also provide some insight into the role of one's ego and its balance, or lack thereof, as a guide in motivating terroristic behavior.

From the view of an externalist, factors like dreams, seen as messages from divine beings or other religious motivators and political factors may prove to be powerful motivating factors in advancing terrorist activity.

o After review of the course materials, identify the motivational process you see as most accurately moving one to carry out terrorist activity.

o Share your thoughts on whether the motivational process leading to terrorist acts is an individual psychological process or if it is a function of group interactions.

o Tell us why you have selected the position you have as you interact with others during the week.