Comparative Study of Terrorism in Orthodox and Critical Theories: A Case Study of P.K.K.

Since 9/11 attacks the study of terrorism has undergone a major transformation from a minor subfield of security studies into a large standalone field, and is probably one of the fastest expanding areas of research in the academic world. However, much of the literature is surrounded by a number of problems, limiting its potential for producing rigorous empirical findings and genuine theoretical advancements. This article argues that a critical approach can provide a comprehensive frame for analyzing the terrorism phenomenon which being beyond traditional restrictions. Applying the Robert Cox division of international theories into problem-solving and critical theories, the authors at the first, examine the main shortcomings and limitations of orthodox terrorism studies in explaining P.K.K, thenceforth examine exactly how critical approach explains generally the terrorism and specifically the political behavior of P.K.K.