Apocalyptic Faith and Political Violence Prophets of Terror [Hardcover]

This study examines the functional relationship between millenarian-inspired terrorism and the process of political change. Through an exhaustive investigation of late Twentieth-century movements, Aum Shinrikyo, Sendero Luminoso and Hezbollah, it concludes that in each case, apocalyptic expectations performed a significant group mobilization, leadership and therapeutic function.Terrorism and Prophecy The Rise of Millenarian Terror The Mediating Role of the Prophet Alienation and the Quest for Renewal Identity and Apocalyptic Violence

'James Rinehart's important and original analysis of three terrorist movements - Sendero Luminoso, Aum Shinrikyo, and Hezbollah - demonstrate their profound links to deeply embedded currents of millenarian religion and culture. This is a work of rich scholarship that will challenge and stimulate students of terrorism and political violence.' - Michael Barkun, Professor of Political Science, the Maxwell School at Syracuse University, USA

JAMES F. RINEHART is an Associate Professor at Troy University, USA.