Terrorism: Sociological and Psychological Analysis

This report examines terrorism through a sociological and psychological lens, focusing on how societal factors and individual behaviors contribute to this complex issue. It delves into the role of sociology in understanding societal perceptions and the application of social conflict theory, which explains how feelings of inferiority can lead to conflict. The report further explores the psychological aspects, utilizing humanistic theory to analyze individual motivations and actions within terrorism. A contemporary example, the London Bridge attack, is referenced to illustrate the real-world impact of terrorism. The report aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of terrorism's multifaceted nature, integrating both societal and individual perspectives.

Topic
Terrorism
Terrorism is a broad
phenomenon which creates a
general environment of fear
amongst population by using
violence in order to fulfil a
particular objective which can
be political or religious.
Terrorism is an ideology which
is based on broad classes such
as revolutionary and
established terrorism.
Terrorism is an issue in
contemporary society which
generates multiple issues.
Sociology and
psychology
“Role of sociology
and psychology in
understanding
society and
individual human
behaviour in
context of
terrorism”
Sociology is a wider
concept than psychology,
as it a study of whole
society and their involved
patterns of social
relationships. On the other
hand, psychology is a
study of understanding an
individual human’s minds.
In the present context,
both of these concepts
will be used to
understanding perception
of individual beings and
society about terrorism.
Understanding Individuals and Society

Contemporary example
3 June, 2017 London Bridge
attack: Three Islamists
drove into a pedestrian on
London Bridge and then
stabbed various local in this
attack 8 people were killed
and 48 were wounded. This
incident builds a severe fear
in the population of London.
Role of sociology and psychology in understanding society
and individual human behaviour in context of terrorism
Sociology is a study which helps in understanding the views and thoughts of
people in a society about terrorism. There are various theories which help in
understanding the behaviour of population; but in the context of selected
topic, social conflict theory is most appropriate. This theory states that when
few people in a society thinks that they are inferior than other people on the
basis of caste, culture, ethnicity, gender etc., a sense of revenge and conflict
develop in them.
Psychology is a concept which aids in understanding the
behaviour and actions of an individual. In context of selected topic that is
terrorism, there are various theories which can help in understanding the
perspectives of an individual involved in terrorism activities or the individual
being who is a part of society. Humanistic theory is considered to be the most
effective theory as it states that an individual is required to gain self-esteem
and should think good about itself
.
REFERENCES
Webber, D. and
Kruglanski, A. W., 2018.
The social psychological
makings of a
terrorist. Current opinion
in psychology. 19.
pp.131134.