Analysis Quote by Thomas P.M. Barnett
“What makes a terrorist? Are the drivers primarily political or economic? Princeton economist Alan Krueger has made a great study of this question...What Makes a Terrorist lacks a question mark. That's because Krueger, marshaling persuasive statistics and analysis, comes down firmly on the side of politics, noting most terrorists are middle-class and well-educated.”
About This Quote
Source Article: "What Makes a Terrorist" by Thomas P.M. Barnett, 2005
Terrorism is driven more by political motives than economic ones, often involving educated middle‑class individuals.
In simple terms: Politics, not poverty, fuels terrorism.
Key Takeaway
Address political roots of extremism.
Themes
terrorism
politics
education
class
Mood
analytical
urgent
Type
political
academic
When to use this quote
- policy making
- counter‑terrorism training
- academic research
- media reporting
Key Concepts
political science
sociology
security studies
Questions to Reflect On
- How can policy target political motivations?
- What role does education play in radicalization?
A Different Perspective
Economic factors can also play a role.
