Skip to content
Apply
Stories

Rules for Rebels: The Science of Victory in Militant History | Max Abrahms

People in this story

Max Abrahms, Associate Professor of Political Science

Ever wonder why militant groups behave as they do? For instance, why did Al Qaeda attack the World Trade Center whereas the African National Congress tried to avoid civilian bloodshed? Why does Islamic State brag over social media about its gory attacks, while Hezbollah denies responsibility or even apologizes for its carnage?

This book shows that militant group behaviour depends on the tactical intelligence of the leaders. The author has extensively studied the political plights of hundreds of militant groups throughout world history and reveals that successful militant leaders have followed three rules. These rules are based on original insights from the fields of political science, psychology, criminology, economics, management, marketing, communication, and sociology. It turns out there’s a science to victory in militant history. But even rebels must follow rules.

More Stories

No “water system in the world” could have handled the LA fires. How the region could have minimized the damage

01.13.2025
Megan Mantia, left, and her boyfriend Thomas, return to Mantia's fire-damaged home after the Eaton Fire swept through, Wednesday, Jan. 8, 2025, in Altadena, Calif. (AP Photo/Ethan Swope)

California wildfire disaster: State’s insurance industry could see “catastrophic failures” in the coming days

01.13.2025

Nicolás Maduro Calls for Puerto Rico Invasion to “Liberate” Island From US

01.13.25
In the News