What Makes a Terrorist

Why we need to think more like economists to successfully combat terrorism

Alan Krueger was one of the most respected economists of his generation, advising two presidents and helping to instill greater empiricism in economics. In What Makes a Terrorist, he argues that if we are to correctly assess the root causes of terrorism and successfully address the threat, we must think more like economists do. Krueger examines the factors that motivate individuals to participate in terrorism, drawing inferences from their economic, social, religious, and political backgrounds. Many popular ideas about terrorists are fueled by falsehoods, misinformation, and fearmongering. This 10th anniversary edition of What Makes a Terrorist puts the threat squarely into perspective, bringing needed clarity to one of the greatest challenges of our generation.