D.I.M.E.F.I.L.: A Wordwide Campaign for Life
Abstract
Countering the trend of suicide bombings requires not only changing the mindset of the potential bomber, but ensuring that terrorist organizations that use such methods incur painful costs. To understand what could potentially deter the suicide bomber, the author studied the profiles of suicide bombers and the factors motivating their actions. What motivates the bomber to kill him or herself? The study revealed that motivating factors include the organization that recruits the bomber, religion, societal influences, politics, and nationalism. The motivating factors for females are very similar to those of males, but women more commonly want to avenge an injustice such as the death or injury of a family member or friend, or a rape or assault that was inflicted upon them. Whatever the motivating factor, women suicide bombers generate much more media coverage than men. Research indicates that some suicide bombers can be deterred through the following means: diplomacy, information, military, economic, financial, intelligence, and law enforcement (D.I.M.E.F.I.L.). However, these elements cannot completely stop suicide attacks. If these means of national power are not used as an ongoing method of deterrence, another 9/11 on U.S. soil is a strong possibility.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 01, 2007
- Accession Number
- ADA468858
Entities
People
- Lisa Grice
Organizations
- National Defense University