Anthropological perspectives of resistance terrorism : a cultural evolutionary approach

Abstract

International terrorism has, to a large degree, been avoided by anthropologists. What has been done is primarily focused on state terrorism (oppressive regimes) or on such specific topics as symbolism (i.e., mural art) in resistance movements. This paper presents an evolutionary approach to the study of terrorism. Specifically the paper looks at resistance terrorism rather than state terrorism and does so proposing that social/political circumscription (Carneiro, 1970) is the primary cause for the occurrence of the phenomenon. Terminology used in the study of political evolution will be used in this study as comparative rather than descriptive. Such terms as band, tribe, chiefdom, and state will be used in comparing the various levels of social complexity arising in resistance terrorist groups. Other evolutionary concepts, such as the principle of competitive exclusion and resource concentration, will also be applied. The modem state of Israel will be given as the primary case study although other examples will be provided.

Notes

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Thesis Completion

1994

Semester

Spring

Advisor

Jones, David E.

Degree

Bachelor of Arts (B.A.)

College

College of Arts and Sciences

Degree Program

Anthropology

Subjects

Arts and Sciences -- Dissertations, Academic;Dissertations, Academic -- Arts and Sciences

Format

Print

Identifier

DP0020864

Language

English

Access Status

Open Access

Length of Campus-only Access

None

Document Type

Honors in the Major Thesis

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