Securitization After Terror

In the initial aftermath of a terrorist attack, there is a common shock and outrage shared by the government and the citizenry. A direct result of this, coupled with fear and not knowing if more immediate attacks are pending, the government will always err on the side of caution and deploy additional personnel. This rapid increase in the overall level of security seeks to prevent any possible second wave of attack. At the same time, it serves to provide the frightened public with a measure of comfort. During the early stages of an event, such a response is a demanded and welcome sight, but that is relatively short-lived. As time passes—unless the attack is sustained on home soil—general fear and angst diminish, along with the ...