Essentials of Counterterrorism

A comprehensive overview of counterterrorism that examines key aspects of the fight against terrorism, including intelligence, law enforcement, the military, financial and criminal activity, ethics, and social media. Recent terrorist actions in the United States and abroad make it clear that the subject of counterterrorism is as vital and as timely as ever. Edited by a leading authority on terrorism and security studies, this compendium offers a wide-ranging look at the most vital aspects of counterterrorism, from diplomacy and military action to the investigation and interdiction of terrorist finances. Following an introduction, chapters offer insightful discussions of strategy, policy, tactical, and operational dimensions of counterterrorism. An interdisciplinary team of expert contributors examine a wide range of topics, including "lone wolf" and homegrown terrorists, intelligence cooperation, social media, community policing, terrorism finance, and the shadow economy. Case studies from Europe, Latin America, South Asia, the Middle East, and the United States provide clear, practical examples of effective—and sometimes not so effective—approaches to combating terrorism. The volume will serve as a central textbook for professional development courses, workshops, and academic degree programs on terrorism, counterterrorism, and security studies.