Helplessness rage projected outward and guilt turned inward explains terrorist self-sacrifice

Evidence

According to Erikson, the rage that an individual feels at being helpless is projected onto the controlling figures; it may also engender guilt feelings, which lead to selfpunitive actions. Thus, Erikson’s theory can help explain the theme of self-sacrifice in terrorist behavior. — John T. Jost and Jim Sidanius, Political Psychology, 4122

Categorization

• XREF: connects to: Cornered destructiveness stops distinguishing self-destruction from outward violence — Theodor W. Adorno, Minima Moralia: Reflections from…, 118