What three roles are paramount to a militant group’s success? Find out with Northeastern professor and author Max Abrahms! Ever wonder why militant groups behave as they do? For instance, why did Al Qaeda attack the World Trade Center whereas the African National Congress tried to avoid civilian bloodshed? Why does Islamic State brag over social media about its gory attacks, while Hezbollah denies responsibility or even apologizes for its carnage?

This book shows that militant group behavior depends on the strategic intelligence of the leaders. The author has extensively studied the political plights of hundreds of militant groups throughout world history and reveals that successful militant leaders have followed three rules. These rules are based on original insights from the fields of political science, psychology, criminology, economics, management, marketing, communication, and sociology. It turns out there’s a science to victory in militant history. But even rebels must follow rules.

Dr. Max Abrahms is among the world’s leading experts on the subject of terrorism. He is currently an assistant professor of political science at Northeastern University, an affiliate at the Global Resilience Institute, a term member at the Council on Foreign Relations, and a board member of the journal Terrorism and Political Violence. Dr. Abrahms has published extensively on the subject of terrorism, with articles in International Security, Harvard Business Review, Foreign Policy, Foreign Affairs, the New York Times, and more.

WorldBoston’s Chat & Chowder features key authors on international affairs in an engaging setting. In addition to discussion of a featured book (usually sold at a significant discount), the program offers the opportunity for discussion among members and guests – and of course a selection of chowders and beverages.