A Law and Economics Perspective on Terrorism

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

1-1-2006

Abstract

This paper reviews the existing law and economics literature on crime, noting where various models might apply to the terror context. Specifically, it focuses on two strands of the literature, deterrence and incapacitation. It considers anti-terror measures enacted by different countries, highlighting how the details of the laws correspond to the insights from economic models of crime. In conclusion, the paper proposes an efficient sorting mechanism in which individuals will be provided with incentives to reveal their type to law enforcement authorities.

Keywords

Terrorism, Penalty enhancements, Communal liability, organized crime, Basic crime model, deterrence, incapacitation

Publication Title

Public Choice

DOI

https://doi.org/10.1007/s11127-006-9058-4

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