Biological Weapons and Terrorism

<p>The purpose of this paper is to determine if there is a growing bioterrorism threat. The thesis analyzes the lessons and implications taken from two state program case studies and four examples of terrorists desiring or achieving a biological weapons capability. The second part of the thesis aims to understand the effects of the biotechnology revolution on biological weapons programs. The final chapter uses this analysis to assess terrorists' interest in a biological weapon and determine what motivations exist for a terrorist to target and work towards acquiring a biological weapon. The thesis concludes that there is a growing bioterrorism threat and then provides two paths for policy-makers to take when addressing the threat. Broadly speaking, policy-makers can take steps to prevent terrorists achieving a biological weapons capability or follow a path that prepares the United States to effectively address and mitigate the effects of an attack.</p>

Name thesis:degree_name

Master of Science in Defense and Strategic Studies

Level thesis:degree_level

Masters

Discipline thesis:degree_discipline

Defense and Strategic Studies

Year

2013

Author dc:creator

• Kisner, Kimberly Anne

Contributors dc:contributor

• Dr. Bronson

• biological terrorism
• biological weapons
• al Qaeda
• biotechnology revolution
• anthrax
• Defense and Security Studies

Statement dc:rights

• © Kimberly Anne Kisner

Repository record dc:identifier

https://bearworks.missouristate.edu/theses/1371

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:bearworks.missouristate.edu:theses-2372