The Role of the Media in Shaping Public Opinion About Terrorism - Term Paper Example

Terrorism is not a 21st Century phenomenon as it bears origins back from political and resistance movements. Notable examples include The Sicarii, which was a Jewish terrorist group with the goal of overthrowing the Roman Empire that was in power at the moment in the region. They used to carry out their terror attacks by stabbing and killing enemies in crowded places and they would later pretend to cry together with the victims, disguising their identities. The French Revolution is considered the source of modern terrorism.

This period was referred to as the Reign of Terror and it took place between 1793 and 1794. It was a period of violence during the revolution that arose as a result of conflicting ideologies between two political groups in the nation. The period marked mass killings of foes from both sides; it was an act of state terrorism. As of September 11th, 2001, two hijacked planes crashed the Twin Towers leading to its subsequent fall. This terrorist attack made the world view terrorism acts from a whole new perspective.

None could assume the wrath and reality of terrorism and thus many measures were taken by various governments all around the world to curb terrorism. Certain countries govern acts of terrorism against adversaries both in the international and domestic domains. These acts are usually executed secretly by the governments to avoid unilateral sanctions that might be imposed on them by the international community. This act is usually motivated by religious groups in accordance with their faith and beliefs.

It aims at fulfilling faith in one’s religious purpose as it is considered as a calling or a divine duty sanctioned by one Creator. Acts of this form of terrorism are carried out by resistance groups rebelling against their governments. This might be as a result of perceived grievances by these groups that have been ignored or caused by their governments and systems.