London today - terrorism - understanding it

I know I wasn't planning to take on big issues just yet, but in light of the events today it only makes sense to put a few comments down now. First, everyone's thoughts and prayers should go out to those that have been directly impacted by the attack in London today. For anyone who got stuck under a rock and missed the ongoing coverage - Four explosive devices were detonated in London today during the morning rush hour. Three of the devices were set off on the subway (tube) and the fourth was on a double decker bus. There are more than 35 confirmed deaths and about 700 injuries. That's right - four coordinated detonations all occuring in about 30 minutes. But that's enough of recaping news. For more information try the BBC (and excellent source of world news) and let's get on with understanding the event.

First of all terrorism is not a noble cause and it is not the work of noble freedom fighters. Deliberately targeting civilians is not a just way of waging war. Terrorism is a theatrical event, using violence or the threat of violence, that is staged with the intent of affecting political, economic or social change. If you want an official definition try the FBI's website. To put it in the most elementary terms - it is the threat or use of violence by the few to affect the many by affecting the few. We are all meant to become scared for our lives because of the event. It is not random - typically - but is carefully planned and executed to have the greatest impact on YOUR emotions. McVeigh is said to have admitted (American Terrorist) that one of the reasons he selected the Murrah building was because of the potential camera angles that would allow the public to clearly see the extent of destruction. Yes this is factor in the planning of a terrorist attack. You cannot maximize the impact on the 'many' without media coverage. It is these images that we see - and remember - that affect us from that moment forward. One of the best descriptions of terrorism I have ever read went something like this...

We have the right of free speech but we do not have a right to force anyone to listen, and that is what terrorism does. It forces us to listen, to see, to wonder, and to fear. Terrorism is terrorism is terrorism. It does not matter what the cause is. It does not matter what the goal is. It is meant to instill fear - fear that will ultimately change your view, or your vote, or your willingness to live and enjoy your life. -- Because you are afraid. How many people were unwilling to fly on an a commercial flight after 9/11? How many will be fearful of trains, subways and buses now? Was it effective today? We'll know that when we look at how it may change the behavior of the 'many.'

Next let's look at what we can do to prepare, cope and prevail.