Publication Type: Conference Paper/Unpublished Manuscript
Review Method: Peer Reviewed
Abstract: Terrorism, and Suicide bombing in particular, has demonstrated a "contagion effect." We can discern the direct (patron-client) and indirect (through observation) influences of suicide terror. In some instances, insurgent factions have been physically trained by other organizations and taught how to best use horrifying tactics to devastating effect, who subsequently import the tactic far and wide. Terrorist groups provide financing, technical, and tactical training. On other occasions, factions observe the successful operations of groups from afar -- because of the publicity and media attention engendered by spectacular bombings, and then imitated the techniques to suit local circumstances. This paper investigates the process of contagion and demonstrates how terrorist organizations "learn" from each other.