Definitions Quote by Joichi Ito
“It would be easy to define terrorism as attacks against human rights and international humanitarian law forbids attacks against innocent non-combatants which is often the definition used for terrorism.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: Interview, 2015
Terrorism is defined by attacks on human rights and the protection of civilians, but definitions vary and are contested.
In simple terms: Terrorism involves attacks on civilians and human rights.
Recognize the complexity of defining terrorism.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- policy analysis
- media reporting
- academic research
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How do differing definitions affect counter‑terrorism policy?
- Can a universal definition ever be fair?
Definitions can be politicized and differ across cultures.