Comparing Al Qaeda and Islamic State: Similarities and Differences

• In Event: Terrorism, Patterns and Trends

Abstract

This research compares two major terrorist organizations in the world, namely Al Qaeda and Islamic State. Narrative analysis method will be used to identify similarities and differences of these terrorist organizations in their ideologies, objectives, methods, strategies, tactics, and future plans. The data of this research include statements of leaders and explanations of other important figures in terrorist organizations, media outlets, audio and visual resources, social media communications, and other declassified letters and documents. By doing a comparative analysis, this study aims to deepen our understanding about the similarities and differences of these terrorist organizations to develop better responses against terrorism.

Author

• Ahmet Guler, Lock Haven University