The Terrorism Reader is an intriguing introduction to a notorious and disturbing international phenomenon. The book draws together material from a variety of experts and clearly explains their opinions on terrorism, allowing understanding, conjecture and debate.

David J. Whittaker explores all aspects of terrorism from its definition, psychological and sociological effects, legal and ethical issues to counter-terrorism. In a particularly original way, the Reader illustrates the growth and variety of terrorism with a series of case studies from four continents including:

• the Taliban and the al-Qaida terror network, and America's war against terrorism
• ETA and Spain
• the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia
• the Liberation Tigers in Sri Lanka
• the IRA and UFF in Northern Ireland
• the Shining Path in Peru.

This new edition includes fully updated chapters on Palestine and Israel, the London 7/7 bombings and a a new chapter on Jihad, as well as a focus on issues of contemporary concern such as state terrorism, terrorist withdrawal and deradicalisation, and human rights.