Analyzing the effectiveness of Al Qaeda's online influence operations by means of propaganda theory
General Material Designation
[Thesis]
First Statement of Responsibility
David K. Lyons
Subsequent Statement of Responsibility
L. A. Valero
.PUBLICATION, DISTRIBUTION, ETC
Name of Publisher, Distributor, etc.
The University of Texas at El Paso
Date of Publication, Distribution, etc.
2013
PHYSICAL DESCRIPTION
Specific Material Designation and Extent of Item
100
DISSERTATION (THESIS) NOTE
Dissertation or thesis details and type of degree
M.S.
Body granting the degree
The University of Texas at El Paso
Text preceding or following the note
2013
SUMMARY OR ABSTRACT
Text of Note
This thesis sought to explore the use of propaganda by al Qaeda through the lenses of established propaganda theorists and theories. Through analyzing former al Qaeda releases and case studies in the context of propaganda theory this thesis established a clearer understanding of the effectiveness of al Qaeda's propaganda. After analyzing the propaganda and case studies it was discovered that the rate of those engaging in attacks based on al Qaeda's online influence operations is insignificant. The concerns that al Qaeda is recruiting numerous individuals to engage in attacks based on its online propaganda operations might be overstated and while it is still a threat it may not warrant the discussion it receives.