THE GIFFORD LECTURES 2003 Terrorism and Political Ethics

The word "terrorism" has become a part of our everyday language. To a great extent, its meaning has been trivialized by its frequent use. In lectures delivered in Scotland, Michael Ignatieff revisits and defines this concept in terms of its historical, political, sociological, philosophical, and psychological mean-ings. His perspective is that language and political process, rather than arms, are the keys to solving the dilemma of terrorism. Drawing upon an impressive breadth of learning, he demonstrates the utility of rational processes in our confrontation with irrational forces. Thus, he provides some hope for the future of liberal democracy. J.W. (c) AudioFile 2005, Portland, Maine [Published: FEB/ MAR 05]