Defining Terrorism

The definition of terrorism in the modern context is disputable. Here are a few aspects of terrorism, that help define it.

• The act is violent
• The motive is hidden under political, religious or sectarian claims
• The target is civilian
• The objective is to intimidate
• The intimidation is directed at government or society
• The perpetrator is non-governmental
• The act is unlawful

To add more perspective to this definition, Adolf Hitler's Blitzkrieg was a "terrorising" attack, but a clear act of war by an identifiable aggressor. The perpetrator was "governmental" and hence his attack falls out of the above definition of "terrorism." However, due to the violation of treaties signed prior, his acts of 'war' were illegal (and far from righteous.)