Post-Grant Reports

Title

Analysis of Population Dynamics of Terrorist Cells Using Applied Mathematics

Document Type

Report

Publication Date

3-10-2014

Disciplines

Applied Mathematics

Abstract

Applied mathematics connects many different fields of sciences. This research focuses on the population dynamics of terrorist organizations, namely Al Qaeda, by creating a mathematical model, while still considering social science fields, such as psychology. By considering psychological interrelations of a terrorist cell and their contact with citizens, we design a model that is a four dimensional system of nonlinear differential equations to better understand the way in which recruitment ensues within such organizations. Using the computer program Mathematica, we are able to manipulate multiple parameters simultaneously in order to observe the impact of certain recruitment techniques on the general population. This results in either the absorption of the human race by the terrorist organization, or more positively, a ceiling on the terrorist population. Other scientists, such as psychologists, can use this information to implement new strategies to combat terrorism from a new intellectual perspective.

Comments

This research was conducted as part of a Linfield College Student-Faculty Collaborative Research Grant in 2013, funded by the Office of Academic Affairs.

The student collaborator was Amanda Dorman.

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