Advanced Placement (AP) Human Geography Practice Exam

Terrorism is characterized by the use of violence that is both intentional and strategically aimed at drawing attention to specific social, political, or ideological issues. This approach often involves creating fear or uncertainty among a larger audience or specific target populations, with the goal of influencing behavior or policy.

The essence of terrorism lies in its calculated nature; it seeks to communicate messages or demands through shocking and extreme acts that are meant to provoke public debate, change government policies, or garner support for the perpetrators' causes. This aligns closely with the idea of forcing attention onto issues in a controlled manner, indicating a deliberate strategy rather than random acts of violence.

In contrast, the other options do not encompass the comprehensive nature of terrorism. The idea of unintentional violence does not align with the calculated methods typically employed in terrorist acts. Similarly, while violence can lead to social change, terrorism is more deeply rooted in the strategic intention to manipulate public perception and reaction rather than simply seeking change. Lastly, targeting solely military objectives does not fit the broader definition of terrorism, as it often includes civilian targets to maximize impact and visibility.