Fact Check: "Terrorism is defined as the unlawful use of violence and intimidation."
What We Know
The term "terrorism" is officially defined by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) as "the unlawful use of force and violence against persons or property to intimidate or coerce a government, the civilian population, or any segment thereof, in furtherance of political or social objectives" (FBI and Terrorism, North Augusta, SC). This definition encompasses both domestic and international acts of terrorism, indicating that the unlawful use of violence is a core component of the term.
The FBI further elaborates that terrorism can manifest in various forms, including acts committed by individuals or groups, and can be aimed at achieving political or social goals (A Review of the FBI's Handling of Intelligence). Additionally, the distinction between domestic and international terrorism is made based on the origin of the perpetrator and the target of the act (A Review of the FBI's Handling of Intelligence).
Analysis
The claim that "terrorism is defined as the unlawful use of violence and intimidation" aligns closely with the FBI's definition. The FBI is a credible source, being the principal federal agency responsible for investigating and preventing terrorist activities in the United States. Their definitions are widely accepted in legal and academic contexts, providing a reliable basis for understanding terrorism.
However, it is important to note that the term "intimidation" is not explicitly mentioned in the FBI's definition as a standalone concept; rather, it is included within the broader context of coercion and the use of violence. This slight nuance does not detract from the overall accuracy of the claim but highlights the importance of precise language in legal definitions.
Moreover, the definition is consistent with other sources that discuss terrorism, which often emphasize the political or social motivations behind violent acts (Understanding and Conceptualizing Domestic Terrorism). The FBI's definition is also corroborated by various governmental and academic analyses, reinforcing its validity (Domestic Terrorism: Definitions, Terminology, and ...).
Conclusion
Verdict: True
The claim that "terrorism is defined as the unlawful use of violence and intimidation" is accurate based on the FBI's established definition. The FBI's definition encapsulates the essence of terrorism as involving unlawful violence aimed at intimidating or coercing entities for political or social objectives. While the term "intimidation" is not explicitly stated in the FBI's definition, it is inherently included in the context of coercion, thereby supporting the claim's overall truthfulness.
