Anthropology of Global Jihadism

Abstract

Jihadism necessitates interpretation rather than strict classification; its historical relevance, contemporary use in Media, official and legislative use within Islam, and spiritual importance to Muslims provides a different meaning in each context. Global Jihadism is a recent phenomenon frequently associated with international terrorism targeted at the West. Jihadists have no observable profile; individuals known to be in association with these organizations come from heterogeneous backgrounds and nationalities. Characteristics can be offered that suggest likely recruits such as cues in terms of socioeconomic class, education and background, however, there is no direct evidence of strict attributes that represent the population. Identifying and screening jihadist recruits is exceedingly problematic for this reason, for both counterterrorism efforts and in distinction methods for how Jihadist organizations gain momentum. Determining what venue, whether Internet or face-to-face interaction, organizations choose in the selection process also depends on strategy and risk-assessment measures. This paper considers many aspects of the interpretation of Jihadism and how it is represented as a global phenomenon.