Rethinking the Poverty/Terrorist Link

Researchers and authors Alan B. Krueger and Jitka Maleckova have released a new study questioning whether poverty and lack of education are root causes of terrorist behavior. The authors proclaim that any link between poverty, poor education and terrorism are weak at best and may be dangerous assumptions. Through a comprehensive examination of terrorist groups, interviews with terrorist group leaders and public surveys the two conclude that terrorist acts are more a response to political conditions and feelings of oppression (whether "real or perceived") and a desire to attain a status of honor. The authors also contend that humanitarian aid to those in need is justifiable in and of itself without labeling the aid as a factor for reducing terrorist behavior. To do so, in fact, could be dangerous, by leading some groups to believe that violent acts may heighten the probability of receiving aid. Furthermore, a public opinion poll conducted in the West Bank and Gaza Strip revealed that support for violence against Israelis is as great among highly educated and well-off Palestinians as it is for the poor and illiterate population. Groups such as the radical Hamas report that one of the greatest difficulties is choosing from amongst the hordes of volunteers who desire to become suicide bombers. Group leaders claim they must turn many away, carefully selecting those who have what they consider the strongest traits for carrying through with the violent act. The study notes that none of the suicide bombers in recent conflicts were desperately poor, uneducated or "simple minded." Many were middle class and held high paying jobs. Two were the sons of millionaires.

(The New Republic Online)

Author: Gail Snyder