Terrorism: Theirs & Ours : Book Review

In his book "Terrorism: Theirs and Ours," Eqbal Ahmad presents a thought-provoking analysis of terrorism and its role in global politics. He challenges the simplistic view of terrorism as solely an act of violence and argues for a comprehensive understanding that considers political, socio-economic, and historical factors.

Ahmad rejects the prevailing narrative that links terrorism to religious extremism or irrational behavior. Instead, he highlights the importance of political grievances, economic disparities, and social injustices in fueling desperation that can lead individuals and groups to resort to terrorism. By providing a historical context, Ahmad traces the origins of terrorism to the legacies of colonialism, imperialism, and the Cold War, shedding light on the role of Western powers in perpetuating violence and instability in different regions.

Another important aspect of Ahmad's analysis is his critique of the lopsided nature of the "war on terror" and its impact on civil liberties and human rights. He exposes the tendency of powerful nations to label certain groups as terrorists without addressing their own state-sponsored acts of violence. Ahmad calls for a more nuanced approach to counter-terrorism that addresses the root causes rather than relying solely on military interventions and surveillance.

Through his extensive knowledge and experience in international relations and conflict resolution, Ahmad offers readers a fresh perspective and encourages critical thinking about the complexities of terrorism. His ideas challenge the mainstream narrative, urging readers to consider the multifaceted nature of terrorism and its implications for global peace and security.

In conclusion, "Terrorism: Theirs and Ours" is a thought-provoking and insightful examination of terrorism that goes beyond stereotypes and oversimplifications. Ahmad's nuanced analysis and historical context shed light on the complex factors that contribute to the emergence of terrorism. By critically questioning the prevailing narrative, Ahmad invites readers to consider alternative perspectives and encourages a more comprehensive approach to addressing the issue of terrorism.

What are readers saying?

Eqbal Ahmad's book "Terrorism: Theirs and Ours", published in 2001, has received a range of reviews from readers. The book aims to explore the multifaceted nature of terrorism and offers a critical analysis of the motivations behind acts of terror.

Some readers found Ahmad's book to be thought-provoking and insightful. They praised his ability to delve into the complex issues surrounding terrorism and appreciated his balanced approach. These reviewers valued Ahmad's emphasis on understanding the underlying causes of terrorism rather than simply demonizing the perpetrators.

However, other readers expressed disappointment with "Terrorism: Theirs and Ours". They found the book lacking in clear structure and Ahmad's arguments convoluted and difficult to follow. Some also criticized his sympathetic portrayal of certain terrorist organizations, feeling that it undermined the seriousness of the issue.

Many readers commended Ahmad's extensive knowledge and research on the subject. They appreciated his in-depth analysis of specific cases such as the Irish Republican Army (IRA) and the Palestinian-Israeli conflict. These readers found the historical context provided by Ahmad to be invaluable in understanding the complexities of terrorism.

Nevertheless, some reviewers found Ahmad's writing style overly academic and inaccessible. They felt the book was dense and lacked clarity, making it challenging for readers without a strong background in political science or international relations.

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