Here is a thoughtful review of the NY Times' use of the words and terrorist and terrorism by its public editor. I think the Times is far too conservative (dare I use that word when referring to the Times?) in using the words. I agree with the public editor's conclusion below.
When such heinous and indiscriminate killing/maiming acts are done by a person, whether part of an organized group or not, it's terrorism and that person at that moment is a terrorist. When an 'organized' group uses these despicable acts as a tactic or strategy for social, political, or military ends, the group is a terrorist organization and they should be hunted and eradicated (or 'brought to justice' as President Bush puts it).
"My own broad guideline: If it looks as if it was intended to sow terror and it shocks the conscience, whether it is planes flying into the World Trade Center, gunmen shooting up Mumbai, or a political killer in a little girl’s bedroom, I’d call it terrorism — by terrorists."
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