General characteristics of the basic concept of terrorism

Abstract

Scientists trying to reach a consensus on the meaning of the term "terrorism" and how to deal with it have concluded that it is almost impossible to find a framework for a single generally accepted definition. When considering the conceptual determination of the word "terrorism", fragmented attitudes should serve as a warning that we are walking on thin ice where there is a collision of numerous definitions, a wealth of determinations with numerous discrepancies, contradictions, inaccuracies, and ambiguities. Some of the definitions are short and precise, and some implicitly explain what 'terrorism' means, some concepts coincide with those on which the content of the notion of terrorism is based, whereas some formulations are based on the delimitation of this criminal act in the field of national legislation. Ultimately, to summarize, at no point in history has this complex theme been discussed as it is today, while the results have been modest, even unsatisfactory. In short, progress in that sense has not been made. However, individual and collective scientific thought has contributed to defining the legal outlines of terrorism. Finally, its features have been determined significantly by international contracts and case law, which have clarified this concept, its main features. Based on this reference, as the author points out, significant differences exist between the aforementioned theoretical positions. The author says that a look at the level of substantial delimitation of concept terrorism will enable us to obtain interesting and applicable conclusions, which can be further used in explaining and scrutinizing both the characteristics and the specific content of the notion of terrorism, all in the function of looking for the most suitable model to fight against it.