The Oklahoma City Car Bombing: A Call for Action Against Terror, Not Millennial Madness

Strategic Insights -

The recent Oklahoma City car bombing has shocked the nation, leading many to question the impending doom of the year 2000 and the apocalypse. However, psychologist Judith Sills believes that the bombing "is like permission to give it all up" and look for a savior to rescue us. This apocalyptic mindset is not only misplaced but also ignores the real causes of such acts, which lie in the centripetal forces of our times. Political and economic changes over the past decade have led to the rise of white supremacist cults and foreign terrorists, who are often young men caught up in societal changes they cannot cope with. These groups need enemies and a dream, which they find in America and a martyrs' heaven. As the world grapples with these new realities, it is essential to resist the convenient linkage to the millennium and instead focus on the concrete actions needed to combat terrorism.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Oklahoma City car bombing has nothing to do with the year 2000 and should not be linked to the apocalypse.
  • The bombing reflects real causes, including the rise of white supremacist cults and foreign terrorists.
  • These groups are often made up of young men caught up in societal changes they cannot cope with.
  • They need enemies and a dream, which they find in America and a martyrs' heaven.
  • America and its Central Intelligence Agency are no longer viewed as the omnipotent powers they were during the Cold War, making it easier for terrorists to operate.
  • Would-be terrorists are no longer deterred by fear of America, and religious fanatics are not restrained by state sponsors.
  • The failures of governance in many third-world states and societal failures propel Western or Japanese youths to join apocalyptic cults.
  • Americans will have to change their lifestyles somewhat in the coming years, with new safety measures, laws, and international cooperation needed.

Statistics:

  • The Soviet Union broke up four years ago, no longer providing a state sponsor for terrorism.
  • The number of young men joining white supremacist cults and foreign terrorist groups is increasing.
  • The likelihood of terrorist attacks will increase as globalization and technological changes continue to reshape the workplace.
  • The percentage of Americans who distrust governments and are desperate for answers will continue to grow.

Sources:

  • Judith Sills, psychologist and expert on the impact of terrorism on the mind (no specific source provided)
  • Anonymous cited expert on the profile of the men who carried out the World Trade Center car bombing in 1993 (no specific source provided)
  • Trudy Rubin, columnist and editorial-board member for the Philadelphia Inquirer (Philadelphia, Pa. 19101)
  • Pat Robertson, politician and religious leader (no specific source provided)
  • Newt Gingrich, politician and former Speaker of the House (no specific source provided)