Domestic terrorism is a form of terrorism in which citizens target a state. Hate groups are social groups that practice violence, hostility, and hatred to members of the society that differ from the group, for example, racial and sexual differences (Newton, 2021). Although both terms imply violence and may be politically motivated, their targets are different since domestic terrorism targets the overall population, while hate groups focus on certain societal members.
In the United States, the FBI provides a list of terrorist groups, while it does not have a list of hate groups. Unlike terrorist groups, investigation of hate groups is only conducted when a threat is made. This is because domestic terrorism affects a broader population. While the term terrorism has always had a negative impact, the 9/11 events made its impact high for both society and government, requiring careful consideration. Moreover, domestic terrorism often means action, whereas hate groups may operate within only social media. Internet hate groups promote and recruit members online, having real-time conversations.
Hate groups’ web pages may be created to educate people and share their views without possessing the actual act of violence (Newton, 2021). In contrast, domestic terrorist groups may also recruit members by the Internet, yet they intend to find fighters that will do actions towards the state and society.
Additionally, domestic terrorism usually involves so-called lone wolf terrorism, which is an act of violence by only one individual. Many lone wolves share a common trait that is seeking for acceptance from social groups and getting rejected by them (Wiener, 2021). For example, majority of school shooters can be considered lone wolves since they act of rejection. Members of hate groups, on the other hand, act within organizations and make their plans accordingly. However, there is no single explanation of radicalization for both domestic terrorists and hate groups (Wiener, 2021). Poverty, age, gender, level of education, and other factors believed to provoke terrorists or hate group members are not the cause of organizational violence.
With regards to the relationship between domestic terrorism and hate groups, the latter may turn into the form of the former. It can be said that hate groups result in less threat than domestic terrorist groups. Radicalized hate groups can be violent and hostile for the general population, turning into domestic terrorist groups. For example, if a hate group affects the broader population while targeting a specific social group, it may still be considered as a terroristic attack that causes threat to society as a whole (Newton, 2021). Moreover, the aims of domestic terroristic groups and hate groups are driven by the same motivation, which is to change the culture and establish order (Wiener, 2021).
They may seek radical changes that will align with their visions of the world. Both groups also may have the religious motivation and be influenced by terroristic movements or organizations outside of the country. For example, there are people who follow the practices and believe of Al Qaeda or any other religious-driven organization. Such inspiration can result in increased violence and hostility that will cause mass attacks.
Overall, domestic terrorism and hate groups are interdependent terms that imply violence towards a state. Both target innocent people, harming their physical and mental health. They also may be politically motivated, demanding changes within the society. Yet, domestic terrorism is more radicalized form of hate groups that aims to threaten a country and attract the attention of higher authorities.
References
Newton, D. E. (2021). Hate Groups. Santa Barbara: ABC-CLIO, LLC.
Wiener, G. (2021). Domestic terrorism. New York, NY: Greenhaven Publishing, LLC