---
title: "Meaning & Key Takeaway of: The definition of terrorism is killing…"
description: "\"The definition of terrorism is killing civilians with the intent of changing their political affiliation.\" — Caleb Carr"
image: "https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/e8a/caleb-carr-16005_affiliation_the-definition-of-terrorism-is-killing-c_2523834.jpg"
---

#  The definition of terrorism is killing civilians with the…

![“The definition of terrorism is killing civilians with the intent of changing their political affiliation.” quote by Caleb Carr](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/e8a/caleb-carr-16005_affiliation_the-definition-of-terrorism-is-killing-c_2523834.jpg)   [Download](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/e8a/caleb-carr-16005_affiliation_the-definition-of-terrorism-is-killing-c_2523834.jpg) [Open image](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/e8a/caleb-carr-16005_affiliation_the-definition-of-terrorism-is-killing-c_2523834.jpg)

> “The definition of terrorism is killing civilians with the intent of changing their political affiliation.”

[Caleb Carr](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/author/caleb-carr/)

## About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Terrorism is defined as targeting civilians to force political change, emphasizing the strategic use of fear and violence.

**In simple terms:** Violence against civilians to shift politics.

Key Takeaway

Recognize the human cost of political violence.

Themes

politics violence security

Mood

analytical concerned

Type

political educational

When to use this quote

- policy making
- national security
- human rights advocacy

Key Concepts

terrorism studies political strategy

Questions to Reflect On

- What drives groups to target civilians?
- Can non‑violent methods achieve similar goals?

A Different Perspective

Definitions can be contested or politicized.

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[Civilians](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/about/civilians/) [Israel](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/about/israel/) [Killing](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/about/killing/) [Political](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/about/political/) [Politics](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/about/politics/) [Terrorism](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/about/terrorism/)

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