The Myth of Martyrdom: What Really Drives Suicide Bombers, Rampage Shooters, and Other Self-Destructive Killers
"A lively, insightful, and evidence-based analysis of the most disruptive phenomenon in world affairs today. Adam Lankford challenges the conventional wisdom about suicide terrorism in a way that respects the facts, resolves the paradox (with profound implications for many other issues), and not least, de-romanticizes this loathsome practice." --Steven Pinker, Harvard College Professor of Psychology, Harvard University, and author ofThe Better Angels of Our Nature: Why Violence Has Declined"A coherent, must read for all who would claim to be experts in terrorism--or just curious. Dr. Lankford's analytic rigor and willingness to examine assumptions make this a textbook example of how to do research and analysis...As Keynes once wrote: 'When someone persuades me I am wrong, I change my mind.' What will you do?" --Jim Simon, former Asst. Director of Central Intelligence for Administration, Office of the Director of Central Intelligence, and Chair, Homeland Security Intelligence Council"At last an insightful book about martyrdom and suicide bombers. Too many so-called experts have dominated the stage without ever examining the life of a suicide bomber. Lankford, in a thorough and in-depth study, has identified the trauma, chronic depression and suicidal behavior that characterize their lives. This is a fascinating book with profound implications."--David Lester, former president of the International Association for Suicide Prevention"Lankford demonstrates that suicide-murderers who call themselves martyrs are actually suicidal. Like many important ideas, this one seems utterly obvious once someone presents the overwhelming evidence and makes the compelling argument. As Lankford shows, terrorists are motivated by a lot more than the ideologies they espouse...A critically important contribution to the literature and, one hopes, to our counter-terrorism."--Jessica Stern, former Director of Russian Affairs, National Security Council, and author ofTerror in the Name of God: Why Religious Militants Kill"More than a decade after the 9/11 attack, scholars and commentators are still offering alternative explanations as to why the plotters were willing to commit suicide...In a must-read book for those interested in these issues...[Lankford] provides a benchmark that others will have to consider as they seek to reach their own conclusions."--Donald Daniel, security studies professor, Georgetown University, and former Special Adviser to the Chairman, National Intelligence Council