Introduction

This introduction presents an overview of the key concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters of this book. The book discusses the major political, criminological, sociological, and psychological theories of terrorism. It describes that right-wing terrorist groups with a focus on white nationalists and militia groups. The book explores Salafi jihadism, which represents that a minority view within Islam but has been used to justify violent Islamism around the world, including inspiring Americans to take up arms and engage in terrorism. It considers the Sovereign Citizens Movement, an anti-government movement that encourages adherents to take back their sovereign status through unlawful and sometimes violent actions. The book draws on research from the work-performance literature to explore the reasons why an individual becomes a lone wolf terrorist. It investigates the role prison can play in the recruitment of terrorists. The book examines the resulting fear caused by acts of terrorism and how that fear influences the decisions of individuals, businesses, and governments.