Book Launch: Rules for Rebels

The CSIS Transnational Threats Project cordially invites you to a book launch event for Dr. Max Abrahm's newly released Rules for Rebels: The Science of Victory in Militant History (Oxford University Press). 

Moderated by
Seth G. Jones
Harold Brown Chair
Director, Transnational Threats Project
Senior Adviser, International Security Program
 

With
Max Abrahms
Assistant Professor of Political Science and Public Policy, Northeastern University

Ever wonder why militant groups behave as they do? For instance, why did Al Qaeda attack the World Trade Center whereas the African National Congress tried to avoid civilian bloodshed? Why does Islamic State brag over social media about its gory attacks, while Hezbollah denies responsibility or even apologizes for its carnage? 

This book shows that militant group behavior depends on the tactical intelligence of the leaders. The author has extensively studied the political plights of hundreds of militant groups throughout world history and reveals that successful militant leaders have followed three rules. These rules are based on original insights from the fields of political science, psychology, criminology, economics, management, marketing, communication, and sociology. It turns out there’s a science to victory in militant history. But even rebels must follow rules.
 

This event is made possible through general support to CSIS.