The replication of violence: thoughts on international terrorism after September 11th 2001

Gupta, Suman (2002). The replication of violence: thoughts on international terrorism after September 11th 2001. London, UK: Pluto Press.

URL: http://www.plutobooks.com/cgi-local/nplutobrows.pl...

Abstract

This book does not attempt to explain the momentous events of September 11th 2001. Instead it attempts to sharpen our understanding of what phrases such as 'international terrorism' and 'the war against terror' have come to mean since that date. Taking on the issues from a philosophical standpoint, Suman Gupta observes that it has long been difficult to define what constitutes a 'terrorist act'. He explains how the events of last year have jolted even existing understandings in unexpected ways and, importantly, why this difficulty of definition persists. Examining how acts of terrorism and counter-terrorist measures are portrayed in the Western media and the impact this has on public perception, this thoughtful and provocative account provides a refreshing counterpoint to the sensationalised and often over-simplified reporting in the mainstream media.