The document discusses the history of terrorism and debates around the concept of "new terrorism". It notes that while some see terrorism as increasing after the Cold War, misinterpretations exist. The 9/11 terrorist attacks are seen as shifting terrorism's aims and methods. Studies often focus on terrorism before and after 9/11, questioning if motivations, aspirations and weapons have shifted terrorism into a new form. However, the document asks "how new is the new terrorism?" and discusses the ongoing debate among political scientists around the main differences alleged between old and new terrorism.