Enroll Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/911-attack
The events of September 11, 2001, irrevocably altered the global landscape, and understanding the ‘why’ and ‘how’ behind these attacks is crucial for comprehending contemporary world affairs. Coursera’s “Understanding 9/11: Why 9/11 Happened & How Terrorism Affects Our World Today” offers a deep dive into this pivotal moment in history and its lasting impact.
This course, taught by esteemed instructors, meticulously breaks down the complex factors that led to the 9/11 attacks. It begins with a thorough overview of the attacks themselves and the broader phenomenon of modern terrorism. Week two delves into defining terrorism, exploring the critical debate surrounding state-sponsored versus non-state actor violence, and even equips learners with the skill to write a policy memo.
A particularly insightful segment is Week 3, which offers a primer on Islam through an extensive conversation with Imam Abdullah Antepli. This provides essential cultural and religious context, addressing Islamic history, law, the role of women, and the Muslim experience in the post-9/11 world.
The course then pivots to the core of the matter: the al-Qaeda ideology. Week four dissects the set of beliefs that motivated the organization and attracted individuals to its cause. Following this, Week five examines the complex and often nuanced process of radicalization, highlighting that there is no single path and that chance and opportunity play significant roles. The insights from Peter Neumann, a leading expert in security studies, are invaluable here.
Weeks six and seven focus on the crucial counterterrorism efforts. Week six explores the evolution of US counterterrorism philosophies and strategies leading up to 9/11, including attempts to combat Osama bin Laden’s growing threat. The final week, ‘September 12, 2001,’ looks at the US counterterrorism efforts in the aftermath, featuring an interview with Juan Zarate, a key advisor from the second Bush administration. It also touches upon current threats from emerging actors like ISIS and recent developments in the Middle East affecting US security.
Overall, “Understanding 9/11” is an exceptionally well-structured and informative course. It doesn’t shy away from the difficult questions and provides a balanced perspective, making it highly recommended for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of modern terrorism, its roots, and its ongoing global implications. It’s an essential course for students of political science, international relations, history, and anyone interested in contemporary security issues.
Enroll Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/911-attack