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Religious Orthodoxy and Terrorism

In: Economics of Terrorism and Counter-Terrorism Measures

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  • Satya P. Das

    (University of South Florida)

Abstract

This chapter begins with an introduction to the modern economic theory of religion a la Lawrence Iannaccone. It is shown that the practice of religious orthodoxy in the form of various prohibitions and one-time sacrifices can improve welfare. Hence, these practices are not just some irrational or weird idiosyncrasies. Prohibitions and one-time sacrifices, respectively, solve moral hazard and adverse selection problems in the participation of organized religion as a private club activity. These attributes imply that a religiously orthodox organization becomes a close-knit collection of homogeneous and dedicated individuals. The same attributes are also conducive to executing successful terror attacks, which are risky and require team effort. Some terrorist leaders may succeed in swaying members of orthodox groups to embrace terrorism and violence. This explains why “some” religiously orthodox groups have turned to terrorism. Terror groups practice orthodoxy or fundamentalism and carry out terrorist attacks by exploiting economies of scope in “producing” these two activities.

Suggested Citation

  • Satya P. Das, 2022. "Religious Orthodoxy and Terrorism," Springer Books, in: Economics of Terrorism and Counter-Terrorism Measures, chapter 0, pages 525-548, Springer.
    • Handle: RePEc:spr:sprchp:978-3-030-96577-8_14
    DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-96577-8_14
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