Character of Terrorism: A Cultural Perspective

Abstract

Terrorism has long been studied through both a political and economic lens when examining the organizational behavior of terrorist groups. The longevity of these groups is a fairly new area of the literature and what facets of society impact the duration of the groups. This research proposes a cultural lens to examine the longevity of terrorist groups. Drawing upon Geert Hofstede's dimensionalized cultural variables, which identify six different facets of culture, this study aims to find out if culture impacts the longevity of terrorist groups. Taking a quantitative approach the research utilizes a survival model analysis in order to identify the significant variables impacting group longevity rates. Several cultural dimensions are found to be significant in influencing group longevity, highlighting the exploratory nature of this study. This study offers a groundwork study to expand on for further research to explore the relationship between terrorist group behavior and cultural influences. Limitations and further research suggestions are highlighted.