Philosophy of Terror

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Philosophy of Terror

Apis … 3
Charlotte Brontë … 15
André Malraux … 27
Sergei Nechayev … 37
Maximilien Robespierre … 47
Sally C. Johnson … 55

T he words philosophy and terror might seem to be mismatched and unrelated. Terror is often associated with random violence, death, and destruction, while philosophy tends to take on a more peaceful and thoughtful pose. However, terrorists and terror organizations often fancy themselves as revolutionary freedom fighters or leaders committed to preventing an advance in technology. In that vein, many have outlined their ideas, thoughts, and reasons for thinking and acting in a certain manner; others have relied on works of literature for inspiration or justification.

Sometimes, as in the case of Theodore "Ted" Kaczyn ski, the Unabomber, an exhaustive psychological evaluation can provide insight into the mind of a person who would use violence to achieve a philosophical end. When coupled with studying the writings of such an individual, greater understanding of motivations can be gained.

Studying the written works of terrorists and terrorist organizations gives an important historical perspective, and can further explain the causes and reasons for conflict.

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