working definition of terrorism

[apathy maybe]

Do you think that it is possible to come up with a 'working' definition of terrorism? If so what is it?

I have this essay I have to write see.

For a definition to be 'working' it has to be used by different groups.

It is clear that with so many definitions of terrorism around it may seem hard to find one that fits all peoples needs, this is primarily because the definition of terrorism is often one that changes depending on the politics of the time.

[unite and revolt]

i think it all depends on whos doing it. on the news their are reports of tereriset attacks(sorry of my poor spelling comrads,public school) but we can praticaly do the same thing they do and it is seen as ok, but are they terrorist or or they trying to librate their country?wouldt we do the same?

[patrickbeverley]

Terrorism: Using fatal violence, or the threat of same, to promote a political cause or force a government into capitulating to the demands of an organisation. Differs from militancy in that militant protest generally involves damage to property or non-fatal violence, and seldom uses said violence as leverage to force action by coercion.

Or: A term frequently used by the present American government in order to prevent rational debate. :P

[DORRI]

I woudl like to insist on what unite and revolt says.

it all depends on whos doing it.

[piet11111]

terrorism = attacking the civilian population in your country/abroad to frighten them into accepting your political/religious goals out of fear for more attacks.