Winning Without a Fight : How the United States Can Use Non-Violence in Combating Islamic Extremism

For the past decade the United States has been embroiled in a series of conflicts in the Middle East in the hopes of eradicating the threat of terrorism. Despite monumental effort, money, and lives lost, many fear that this has not produced the desired results. This paper analyzes a series of case studies that focus on historical examples of how Islamic extremism was challenged without the use of violent force. By exploring case studies on economic incentives, supporting an alternative and moderate religious message, and supplementing programs of grassroots societal reform, the paper explores the ways in which terrorism has been confronted without the use of force. Based on analysis of these case studies the paper draws comparisons between their efficacy and makes policy recommendations as to which would be most amiable to America’s counter terrorism strategy.