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We cannot truly understand - let alone counter - terrorism in the 21st century unless we also understand the processes of communication that underpin it. This book challenges what we know about terrorism, showing that current approaches are inadequate and outdated, and develops a new communication model to understand terrorism in the media age.

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List of Figures Acknowledgements Introduction: A Different Perspective on Terrorism The Problems with Terrorism Research Terrorism, Communication, and the Media A Communication Approach Explaining Radicalisation The Role of Narratives The Al Qaeda Narrative as a Brand The Way Forward Notes Bibliography Index

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´Bringing together a unique understanding of networks, narratives and branding, Archetti offers a distinctive and sophisticated framework to explain how terrorist and counter-terrorist groups operate through today´s media ecology. Her compelling analysis and recommendations will make for essential reading as Al-Qaeda evolve and new conflicts emerge in the coming decade.´

- Ben O´Loughlin, Royal Holloway University of London, UK

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CRISTINA ARCHETTI is Lecturer in Politics and Media at the University of Salford, UK. She won the 2008 Denis McQuail Best Article of the Year for Advancing Communication Theory award. Her recent publications include Explaining News: National Politics and Journalistic Cultures in Global Context (New York: Palgrave Macmillan).

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