Counterterrorism

Counterterrorism. By Marie-Helen Maras. Jones & Bartlett Learning, jblearning.com; 416 pages; $76.95.

The author of Counterterrorism is eminently qualified to write a book on this important topic. She served seven years in counter-surveillance operations for Naval Intelligence, holds several degrees including a Ph.D. from Oxford University, and is currently teaching at New York University and at John Jay College of Criminal Justice. So it is not surprising that she has written one of the most informative textbooks on the subject to have been published since 9-11.

Counterterrorism uses a multidisciplinary approach to explain all aspects of terrorism in the ever-changing modern world. The book examines the global threat of terrorism and the driving forces behind the measures implemented to combat its spread. The author provides a detailed account of the most significant terrorist groups, and she does so without focusing on al Qaeda at the expense of other domestic and international terrorist groups. She also discusses counterterrorism practices in a number of different fields such as law, public policy, and administration security.

The work is extremely useful for security professionals seeking to expand their knowledge of terrorism beyond al Qaeda. It is also an excellent reference for both graduate and undergraduate students who are considering careers in areas concerned with the growing threat of terrorism. Reviewer: Charles Schnabolk, PSP, is a senior partner of The Security Design Group. He was a member of the nation’s first counterterrorism task force convened by the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey.

Reviewer: Charles Schnabolk, PSP, is a senior partner of The Security Design Group. He was a member of the nation’s first counterterrorism task force convened by the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey.