Municipal Police Officers' Education and Training Commission (MPOETC) Act 120 Practice Exam

Which action is considered necessary to classify an act as terrorism?

1. Causing physical injury

2. Striking fear into a group

3. Committing property damage

4. Intimidation of a government

The correct answer is: Striking fear into a group

To classify an act as terrorism, it is essential that the action is focused on striking fear into a group or the general public. The primary motive behind terrorism is to instill a sense of terror and panic, which is often aimed at achieving a specific political, ideological, or social objective. While causing physical injury, committing property damage, and intimidating a government may occur as part of a terrorist act, the core element that categorizes an action as terrorism is its capacity to instill fear and disrupt societal order. Thus, the act must go beyond just causing harm or damage; it must target the psychological state of individuals or communities, creating widespread fear and apprehension. This fear can lead to significant social and political changes, aligning with the goals typically associated with terrorist activities.