Faculty Sponsor(s)
Stephen Bricher
Location
Jereld R. Nicholson Library
Subject Area
Mathematics
Description
Applied mathematics connects many different fields of science. 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.
Recommended Citation
Dorman, Amanda, "Analysis of Population Dynamics of Terrorist Cells" (2014). Linfield University Student Symposium: A Celebration of Scholarship and Creative Achievement. Event. Submission 5.
https://digitalcommons.linfield.edu/symposium/2014/all/5
Analysis of Population Dynamics of Terrorist Cells
Jereld R. Nicholson Library
Applied mathematics connects many different fields of science. 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
1st place award