Publication

This commentary discusses possible reasons why people join the so-called Islamic State (IS). The author looks at various theories such as social movement theory, which takes on terrorism from an organizational perspective and criticizes the fact that most theories underestimate the autonomy of the individual in his or her decision to commit an act of terrorism. He then contrasts the actions of the IS with the Nazis during the Holocaust and concludes that analysts should think of IS' successful recruitment efforts not merely as a sophisticated and persuasive machine but also as something that manipulates individuals' earnest desires to contribute to a worthy cause.