An analysis of modern terrorism and its threat to national security. First, the course begins with an historical and comparative examination of organized terrorism in different countries, both state-initiated terrorism and that directed against states. Second, it analyzes the roots, social organization, and goals of terrorism directed against the United States at home and abroad, with a particular focus on terrorism emanating from radical Islamists in the last quarter-century. Special attention to: the resurgence of militant Islam and the reasons for Islamists' antagonism toward the West; the recruitment, training, and indoctrination of terrorists; the ideologies and self-images of terrorists; case studies of specific terrorist attacks and their social psychological effects on American citizens. Third, the course examines military actions taken to extirpate terrorism and the efficacy of such actions. Fourth, the course analyzes the exigencies and dilemmas of ensuring public safety in a democratic society. Special attention to: the structure and ethos of intelligence work; the investigation of terrorist networks and their financing; the technology and organization of ascertaining identities; and the control of illegal immigration. Fifth, the course examines the threat of terrorists' use of biological, chemical, and nuclear weapons of mass destruction and the defenses against such threats. Finally, it appraises the structure and content of mass media coverage of terrorism, as well as official and nonofficial propaganda on all sides of these issues. Experts in different fields will give guest seminars throughout the course. Format: Seminar. Requirements: Full participation in seminar. Midterm and final papers. No prerequisites. Enrollment limit: 25 (expected: 25). Open to all classes, to staff, and to the community. A Gaudino Fund Course.