The Meaning of Terrorism

C. A. J. Coady's The Meaning of Terrorism clarifies competing and confusing definitions of terrorism and proposes a tactical definition with a focus on violent attacks upon non-combatants or innocents. It critically discusses theorists who argue that terrorist acts have a special moral significance and explores the scope and meaning of non-combatant status. It also examines the moral challenges facing attempts at counter-terrorism and examines the commonly held view that religion is particularly prone to cause terrorism.

Format: Hardback
Length: 240 pages
Publication date: 25 May 2021
Publisher: Oxford University Press

In his book "The Meaning of Terrorism," C. A. J. Coady delves into the intricate and often conflicting definitions of terrorism and terrorist acts that permeate both specialist publications and popular discourse. Coady's primary objective is to construct a comprehensive concept of a terrorist act that captures the essence of these diverse interpretations, fostering a more coherent and insightful discussion of terrorism and its moral and political implications. Rather than solely seeking clarity about the term's designation, Coady aims to explore various dimensions of the moral meaning of our understanding of terrorism in the context of complex social and political realities.

The opening chapters provide an overview of the commonly proposed definitions of terrorism, and Coady introduces a tactical definition that emphasizes terrorist acts as violent attacks upon non-combatants or innocents. He outlines the benefits of this approach and addresses potential objections that have been raised against it. The book then critically engages with theorists who argue that, regardless of its definition, terrorist acts possess a unique and profoundly disturbing moral significance. Coady examines the scope and meaning of non-combatant status, exploring its relation to recent controversies in the philosophy of war. He also discusses important philosophical defenses of terrorism in specific contexts.

The book concludes with a discussion of the moral challenges posed by counter-terrorism efforts and examines the commonly held view that religion is particularly prone to fostering terrorism or its most extreme manifestations. Throughout the text, Coady employs a rigorous and analytical approach, drawing upon a wide range of philosophical sources and theories to shed light on the complex and multifaceted nature of terrorism. His book offers valuable insights into the moral dimensions of terrorism, contributing to a more informed and nuanced understanding of this global phenomenon.

Weight: 412g
Dimension: 223 x 145 x 22 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780199603961