Training Videos
Objective
Introduce yourself to the idea that terrorists are people with needs just like ours, and that we can re-humanize terrorists.
Definition
Terrorism: the use of violence and intimidation, especially against civilians, in the pursuit of political aims.
The Skeptical Friend’s Opinions
Terrorists are bad people and a danger for all of us, and we should get rid of them.
It is impossible to negotiate with terrorists.
Terrorists have lost all humanity.
Animation
We now recommend that you return to the top of the lesson and watch the video before continuing with the analysis below.
Analysis
Reflect: Describe the video’s main point and provide answers to the Skeptical Friend's opinions.
Brainstorm: Apply your new understandings about terrorism to a real-world situation. Which memories or thoughts came to mind as you watched the video? Reflecting on your own experiences in your own community, raise a question that challenges the message of the animation. Then, attempt to respond to that question from a New Story perspective.
Prepare: After having reflected on common objections to a nonviolent approach of terrorism, make a list of points you could raise the next time someone in your community adopts the lens of the Old Story while discussing terrorism. To give yourself courage, you can also write down the values that motivate you to adopt a nonviolent approach to terrorism (respect for all lives, compassion, etc.).
Practice: Name specific situations in which terrorism could be discussed, and where you might struggle to gather the courage to respond from a New Story perspective.
Invitation to Action
Recall any recent terrorist attacks that may have happened in your country. What were the terrorists’ motives? How did the general population respond to the attacks? Think of alternative nonviolent strategies that the government could have used to respond to the situation(s).
Engage in conversation with trusted friends/family/neighbors about their views on terrorism. Practice your active listening skills, and notice your reactions to their views. If you feel inclined, offer alternative views.
Want to learn more on this topic? See the Terrorism section in the course Library.