Author Description

What is terrorism and can it be defended? Beginning with its definition, proceeding to possible justifications, and culminating in proposals for contending with and combating it, this book offers a full theoretical analysis of terrorism. Tamar Meisels argues that, regardless of its cause, terrorism is diametrically opposed to requirements of liberal morality and can only be defended at the expense of relinquishing the most basic of liberal commitments. Meisels opposes those who express sympathy and justification for Islamic (particularly Palestinian) and Third World terrorism but she opposes those who would tolerate any reduction in civil liberties in exchange for greater security. Calling for a unanimous liberal front against terrorism, this is a strong attempt to address the tension between liberty and security in a time of terror--Publisher's description.