Mann_Jonica_Rational Choice Theory and Islamic Terrorism
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Rational Choice Theory and Islamic Terrorism
Jonica Mann
College of Humanities and Social Science, Grand Canyon University
JUS-212: Criminal Behavior and Victimology
Mark Sims
November 19, 2023
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Introduction
Though the definition of rationality may vary greatly from traditional Western
viewpoints, Islamic jihadist terrorists, like anyone involved in any kind of political violence,
frequently seem to make well-considered decisions. When examining the Islamic Jihabist
terrorists, one can see that they are deliberate, logical decision-makers. The suicide bomber's
self-destructive actions are based on situational logical decision-making. This indicates that the
person will weigh the advantages over the disadvantages, according to Perry and Hasisi (2015).
Their own life as well as the lives of others would be the expenses as they weigh the options or
actions. On the other hand, they learn about the advantages early on and become accustomed to
them. Throughout life, people are enlightened and taught that acting with respect and avoiding
shame can motivate them (Perry & Hasisi, 2015). It is imperative to do a thorough analysis of
this phenomenon, accounting for the socio-political and theological settings that influence their
decisions.
Religious Ideology
Though Western perceptions may have an alternative view of rationality, Islamic jihadist
terrorists are often seen as making deliberate and logical decisions during their decision-making
process. Political, social, and religious factors frequently come together to motivate acts of
terrorism, according to people who engage in it. Here, rationality is defined more as a strategic
decision-making process that is in line with their ideological objectives than as a cost-benefit
analysis in the Western sense. Religious attachment to a specific ideology, a sense of injustice, or
a desire for political change can all have an impact on a person's decision to commit acts of
terrorism. To appreciate the elements that influence these people's decisions, one must have a
thorough understanding of the larger socio-political environment in which they function. The
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perceived benefits and drawbacks of committing acts of terrorism are significantly influenced by
the religious ideology of Islamic jihadist terrorists (Perry & Hasisi, 2015). One pro is martyrdom;
according to many jihadist organizations, it is an extremely moral deed that will bring forth
divine blessings in the hereafter (Perry & Hasisi, 2015). Particularly, suicide attacks are thought
to be a direct route to martyrdom (Perry & Hasisi, 2015). Terrorist attacks are frequently justified
as a defensive tactic to shield Islam and Muslims from alleged outside threats, such as foreign
occupation, military invasions, or perceived Western influence (Perry & Hasisi, 2015). Certain
factions seek to create an Islamic nation under their understanding of Sharia law (Perry & Hasisi,
2015). Terrorist attacks are thought to be essential to accomplishing this political goal. However,
there could also be drawbacks to their behavior: Danger of Capture or Death: There is always a
chance that someone involved in terrorist activities will be apprehended or killed, either by
security personnel or because of the legal system. Civilian Casualties: Because many terrorist
strikes are indiscriminate, they may cause civilian casualties, which raises ethical questions and
could lead to retaliation from within the victims' own communities (Perry & Hasisi, 2015).
International Condemnation: Terrorist acts frequently result in international condemnation,
which diplomatically isolates these organizations and undermines their larger goals (Perry &
Hasisi, 2015). Comprehending the interplay between these ostensible advantages and
disadvantages necessitates a detailed analysis of the ideological underpinnings of each faction,
acknowledging the heterogeneity within the more general classification of "Islamic jihadist
terrorists"(Perry & Hasisi, 2015).
Rational Choice and War on Terrorism
According to rational choice theory, crime is seen as a step in the decision-making
process that occurs when a person or potential offender weighs the advantages and disadvantages
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of engaging in illegal conduct (Siegal, 2018, pg.105). The decision-making process of the
individual is contingent upon both internal and external factors. External factors can include
things like the state of the economy, religion, or even a person's decision-making process. Once a
rational choice theorist has persuaded someone to reconsider going on a suicide mission, they
will point them in the direction of a career that will pay them more than the religion is willing to
give. When this is accomplished, its main goal is to demonstrate that the advantages do not, in
fact, outweigh the disadvantages (Nalbandov, 2017). The decision-making process of the
individual is contingent upon both internal and external factors. External factors can include
things like the state of the economy, religion, or even a person's decision-making process. Once a
rational choice theorist has persuaded someone to reconsider going on a suicide mission, they
will point them in the direction of a career that will pay them more than the religion is willing to
give.
Conclusion
In conclusion, a variety of political, social, and theological elements influence the
complicated motivations and decision-making processes of Islamic jihadist terrorists. When
rational choice theory is applied to the unique circumstances of terrorism, it can help develop
more effective counterterrorism tactics by providing important insights into the decisions made
by those engaged in these activities.
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References
Nalbandov, R. (2017). Irrational Rationality of Terrorism. Air & Space Power Journal: Afrique et
Francophonie, 8(4), 24-38.
Perry, S., & Hasisi, B. (2015). Rational Choice Rewards and the Jihadist Suicide Bomber.
Retrieved November 29, 2020, from
https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/pdf/10.1080/09546553.2014.962991?
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%3A8pav7sDME2EaKEIZPQ_xlZSVDgEYySlgwJKr15SSEj3rB0i5B0xioyXwTWDJdI
8TEy12lmCIuGk5Dg
Siegel, L. J. (2018). Criminology: Theories, patterns, and typologies (13th ed.). Belmont, CA:
Thomson Wadsworth. ISBN-13: 9781337091848
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