E.V. Walter’s (1969) classic analysis of 19th-century political terrorism is still one of the best in terms of explaining the objectives of states that use terrorism. Walter argued that state elites manipulate fear as a means of controlling society and maintaining power. Terror is used to engineer compliant behavior not only among victims, but also among target populations.
Walter’s differentiation between victims and larger targets is key. While victims suffer direct consequences, the targets — larger sectors of society — understand the message.
The underlying goal of state terrorism, Walter suggests, is to eliminate potential power contenders and to impose silence and political paralysis, thereby consolidating existing power relations. The proximate end is to instill terror in society and the ultimate end is control.
From a publication of CIA’s as regards to Operation Condor.
Bookmark.
“The underlying goal of state terrorism, Walter suggests, is to eliminate potential power contenders and to impose silence and political paralysis, thereby consolidating existing power relations. The proximate end is to instill terror in society and the ultimate end is control.”
So, how do we itemize and categorize fat, stupid, federal fascist bureaucrats huddled behind barb wire and concrete barriers in DC, while a national guard platoon from Iowa stands around the parking lot perimeter?
BTW, has anyone checked to see if these part time grunts have ammo in their magazines? I bet not. Incidentally, has Pelosi fed the guardsmen yet? Not eating is great for morale. Maybe Pelosi’s husband will send them cans of tuna from Samoa.
Here’s a beautiful traditional Japanese Kabuki Dance to watch while we ponder whether the noodle-arm, woke bureaucrats can figure out which bathroom to use.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-bZWfAmuKIY