ABSTRACT
National oppression and social inequities are frequently mentioned as the main factors responsible for the spread of terrorism, and it is of course true that happy, contented people seldom, if ever, throw bombs. Systematic terrorist operations involve careful planning, resembling the staff work of a minor military campaign. The central command of the terrorist movement has sometimes been located abroad; Switzerland, the United States, Lebanon have been centers for movements operating elsewhere. The success of terrorist operations depends on reliable information about the targets to be attacked and the movements of the victims to be killed or abducted. Terrorist groups usually hope for a measure of public support. Extreme nationalists operating against foreigners can always count on some sympathy among their fellow countrymen. Police forces in democratic societies, applying traditional methods, have found it exceedingly difficult to cope with terrorist activities.
