Notorious: A Case Study of Marketing and Management Practices in Two Terrorist Organizations
Advisor Information
Gina Ligon
Location
Dr. C.C. and Mabel L. Criss Library
Presentation Type
Poster
Start Date
7-3-2014 9:00 AM
End Date
7-3-2014 12:00 PM
Abstract
Terrorism is a complex issue that demands examination from multiple frameworks. By applying empirical research from marketing and management literature to two historical cases of violent extremist organizations, we were able to understand much more about the “business of terrorism.” While knowing what keeps violent extremist groups going is important, uncovering what led to their downfall is equally, if not more, important. In this study, I used a dataset of historical information previously collected through a grant funded by Department of Homeland Security to add to my own research into the Weathermen Underground and the Japanese Red Army. Using a case study design I applied notoriety (i.e., firm reputation) variables to these violent extremist organizations to determine the similarities and differences in their rise and fall from their height of power. For both organizations, I found that organizational branding was the greatest source of success; however, by creating a highly centralized structure the Japanese Red Army was better able to direct members to a strategic goal. Ultimately, the deterioration of their organizational structures led both groups to collapse. By examining these organizations, I determined that organizational strategies such as creating a unique “brand,” as well as hierarchical structure of operations play significant roles in the overall success of a terrorist organization.
Notorious: A Case Study of Marketing and Management Practices in Two Terrorist Organizations
Dr. C.C. and Mabel L. Criss Library
Terrorism is a complex issue that demands examination from multiple frameworks. By applying empirical research from marketing and management literature to two historical cases of violent extremist organizations, we were able to understand much more about the “business of terrorism.” While knowing what keeps violent extremist groups going is important, uncovering what led to their downfall is equally, if not more, important. In this study, I used a dataset of historical information previously collected through a grant funded by Department of Homeland Security to add to my own research into the Weathermen Underground and the Japanese Red Army. Using a case study design I applied notoriety (i.e., firm reputation) variables to these violent extremist organizations to determine the similarities and differences in their rise and fall from their height of power. For both organizations, I found that organizational branding was the greatest source of success; however, by creating a highly centralized structure the Japanese Red Army was better able to direct members to a strategic goal. Ultimately, the deterioration of their organizational structures led both groups to collapse. By examining these organizations, I determined that organizational strategies such as creating a unique “brand,” as well as hierarchical structure of operations play significant roles in the overall success of a terrorist organization.
Additional Information (Optional)
Winner of Outstanding Undergraduate Poster Presentation