ABSTRACT
Perhaps nothing is as hard to comprehend and explain as domestic terrorism. What motivates individuals to kill fellow citizens and target the very institutions providing for their safety and prosperity? Many of the same drivers are in place as those found in international terrorism such as an extreme religious or political ideology and the ability to anonymously find inspiration, encouragement, tactical techniques, training, and resources through the Internet. With domestic terror, lone wolves are of particular concern, since they are already embedded in society and their clandestine activities are more difficult to predict and prevent. All of these factors make the detection and neutralization of the domestic threat extremely difficult for law enforcement agencies. Psychology is a factor as well; the inherent disbelief in the phenomenon of domestic terrorism may result in a blind spot for investigators and first responders, a vulnerability best mitigated through education and training.
