Terrorism: Difficulties in Countering U.S. Phenomenon of Self-radicalisation in the Digital Era

Abstract

Due to the heightened prevalence of Islamic extremism coupled with the wide acceptance of online social media platforms (Facebook, Twitter,Youtube, etc.), what was once a regional phenomenon established only in areas housing terrorist networks particularly the Middle East, has now found its way to the doors tep of many Western countries. Considering the extremeness of radicalisation, many ponder how an individual could adopt such a behavior and, or, beliefs that bolster his or her engagement in subversive and terrorist activity. Accordingly, what was formerly assumed to be the existence of a single, universally applied, terrorist personality, is now understood as a gradual process undergone by individuals motivated by separate agend as and incentives. Although the process of engaging in terrorism or violent extremism has been argued to be the product of radicalisation and the development of extreme ideologies; radicalising by developing or adopting extremist beliefs that justify violence is just one possible pathway into terrorism involvement (Borum, 2011). Alternatively,it is important to note that most people who hold radical ideas do not end up engaging in terrorism, just as all terrorists may not be as deeply ideological as they are perceived to be. Likewise,though the rapid spread and influence of...