Enroll Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/911-attack
In the wake of the 9/11 attacks, the world changed dramatically, and understanding the forces behind such events has never been more crucial. Coursera’s course, “Understanding 9/11: Why 9/11 Happened & How Terrorism Affects Our World Today,” offers a comprehensive exploration of the events leading up to the attacks, the ideologies that fueled them, and the ongoing implications for global security.
This course is structured into seven weeks, each focusing on a different aspect of terrorism and its aftermath.
**Week 1: Course Overview and the 9/11 Attacks**
The course kicks off by examining the motivations behind al Qaeda’s attack on America. It delves into the radical ideology propagated by Osama bin Laden and explores the allure of such beliefs for individuals. This foundational week sets the stage for understanding the broader context of terrorism.
**Week 2: What is Terrorism?**
In the second week, the course tackles the complex definition of terrorism. It raises critical questions about state versus non-state actors in the realm of political violence, providing a nuanced understanding of the term. Additionally, students learn how to write a policy memo, a valuable skill for anyone interested in public policy or security studies.
**Week 3: A Primer on Islam**
One of the highlights of the course is the conversation with Imam Abdullah Antepli, which offers insights into Islamic history, law, and the post-9/11 Muslim experience. This week emphasizes the importance of understanding the cultural and religious contexts that shape global events.
**Week 4: The al Qai’da Ideology**
The fourth week focuses on the beliefs that motivate al Qaeda. Understanding this ideology is crucial for comprehending the group’s actions and the broader implications for global security.
**Week 5: The Radicalization Process**
This week examines the multifaceted paths to radicalization, emphasizing that there is no one-size-fits-all explanation. The conversation with Peter Neumann adds depth to this exploration, providing expert insights into the complexities of radicalization.
**Week 6: Counterterrorism Before 9/11**
The course then shifts to the U.S. response to terrorism prior to 9/11, analyzing the political philosophies that shaped counterterrorism efforts. This historical perspective is essential for understanding the evolution of U.S. security policies.
**Week 7: September 12, 2001**
The final week features a discussion with Juan Zarate, focusing on U.S. counterterrorism efforts post-9/11 and the evolving threats from groups like ISIS. This week ties together the course content, highlighting the ongoing challenges in global security.
Overall, this course is a must-take for anyone interested in understanding the complexities of terrorism and its impact on our world today. The combination of expert interviews, historical analysis, and practical skills makes it a valuable resource for students, professionals, and anyone seeking to deepen their understanding of these critical issues. I highly recommend enrolling in this course to gain a comprehensive perspective on one of the most significant events in modern history.
Enroll Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/911-attack