People around the globe live in fear of terrorism. After the attacks that brought down the World Trade Center buildings in 2001 and the bombings in Madrid and London in 2004 and 2005, no one feels completely safe. Terror groups, such as Osama bin Laden's al-Qaeda, have proven their ability to strike when and where they choose, often with devastating results. Never has a clear understanding of the phenomenon of terrorism been more important, and yet never has one seemed so elusive. What is terrorism? Who are the terrorists? Why do they do what they do? These and other questions must be answered before the nations of the world can formulate effective counterterrorism strategies. ""Global Extremism and Terrorism"" brings together expertly written articles and essays that explore these pressing issues.