Counter-Terrorism Technologies

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This book critically examines the role of technology in counter-terrorism and the protection of vulnerable open societies, particularly in light of the threats posed by Al Qaeda and ISIS/Daesh. It begins by outlining the current and anticipated tactics and weapons these groups may employ, including chemical, biological, radiological, and potentially nuclear devices. The second section introduces existing and developing technologies aimed at enhancing safety and security against these threats, while also critically assessing the perceived advantages and disadvantages of such technologies, often marketed as a ‘silver bullet’ in the fight against terrorism. It highlights controversies, such as the misuse of millimeter wave scanners at Western European airports, which raise significant human rights concerns. The analytical third part delves deeper into the implications of deploying new surveillance and control technologies alongside the outsourcing and privatization of essential state services, warning that this could lead to dystopian outcomes reminiscent of 1980s cyberpunk literature. The book concludes by posing a crucial question for liberal democracies: how far should we go in fortifying our societies against terrorist threats?