Focusing on the social, political, economic, and psychological roots of terrorism, this examination explores the dynamics of contemporary terrorism as well as the possibilities and limitations of peace processes undertaken by governments that try to end terrorist violence. The contributions are theoretical as well as focused on specific case studies that include Israel and Palestine, Northern Ireland, Colombia, the Basque Country, and Sri Lanka. Tracing the rise and growth of various terrorist groups, this analysis looks at the difficult task policy makers and security officials face in deciding on the appropriate response to terrorist violence, and contends that the complexity of contemporary conflict in the post-Cold War environment requires subtle and multidimensional strategies and the judicious use of conflict management tools.