We have selected four essays from the SSRC collection on "New War?," which we believe are particularly accessible and thought-provoking for advanced high school and undergraduate students.

"Is Cyber Terror Next?"
by Dorothy Denning

Synopsis: Dorothy Denning analyzes the current status of electronic/computer terrorism and the potential for "cyber terrorism" in the near future. She points to the great potential for the use of computer networks either directly to inflict harm (i.e., interfering with computer systems in mass transit systems, poisoning of water systems, etc.) or indirectly to hinder a response to terrorism (i.e., interfering with computer systems that direct and coordinate civil response to emergencies). However, according to Denning, current evidence suggests that organizations such as Al Qaeda do not now possess the high level of skills necessary to use the information technology for cyber terrorism.

"Before, After, and In Between"
by James Der Derian

Synopsis: James Der Derian considers the roles that networks played in the events of September 11. He considers some of the ways in which internet, television and other information networks have been used by both the US and Osama bin Laden to construct perceptions of the war and the enemy. Der Derian calls for a critical analysis of these events and the role information networks have played in shaping this "virtuous war" in order to adequately address the terrorist threat.

"Beyond Militarism, Arms Races and Arms Control"
by Mary Kaldor

Synopsis: Mary Kaldor discusses 'four different types of armed forces that have taken shape in the post-Cold War era and discusses how they are associated with different modes of state transformation and different forms of warfare. She identifies: 1) armed networks that wage 'new wars,' e.g., Al Qaeda; 2) the new American militarism which relies on advanced technology to oppose these forces; 3) neo-modern militarism in countries like Russia, China and India, which maintain modes of war that resemble traditional warfare; and 4) international and regional peace-keeping forces, which face the challenge of protecting civilians in 'new wars'. Kaldor discusses the promotion and implementation of international law as a central component of a wider political approach to control the spread of 'new wars.'

"Protecting Afghan Civilians from the Hell of War"
by Nicholas Wheeler

Synopsis: In the context of U.S. military action in Afghanistan, Nicholas Wheeler considers the principles of "Just War Theory." By applying these principles to the actions of the U.S. in Afghanistan as well as to its leaders' explanation of its actions there, Wheeler offers an initial analysis of the U.S.'s responsibility for civilian deaths in Afghanistan.