Title: International Politics: Terrorism | SparkNotes
Headings: International Politics
International Politics
Terrorism
Types of Terrorism
Guerrillas Versus Terrorists

Content: Guerrillas Versus Terrorists
Although guerrillas have been known to practice terrorism,  guerrillas are not terrorists. Guerrillas fight against their  governments, particularly against the military, in order to provoke a  regime change. Terrorists, in contrast, target civilians and members of  the military in order to create a social and political crisis of  international proportions. Of course, those fighting a guerrilla group  might label their opponents terrorists, and some terrorists may see  themselves as guerrillas. The Purpose of Terrorism
Terrorist acts ultimately aim to undermine governments and disrupt  societies. Many terrorists are young, frustrated men who feel that they have  been treated unjustly. Sometimes terrorists try to destabilize a government  directly, via assassinations, kidnappings, and the bombing of government  buildings. Terrorists can also work to undermine governments indirectly by  showing people that their leaders are too weak to prevent the attacks and that  an active resistance movement exists. Sometimes, terrorists attack in order to  provoke a strong response from the government, hoping that the response will  alienate more people from the government and foster even more political discord. Example: