[xeox538]

People taking a stance based on presented facts of having a opinion based on them because of complete or incomplete information also fine. But it defeats the purpose of having the definition in the first place. I am referring to the using violence against non-combatants mostly civilians with the aim of spreading fear. Never have I said anything of being pro whomever, only condemming the act with the intention of spreading fear. Just like there is fear of US dropping bombs on afgan houses as it is to having planes flying into buildings. It is the behavior not the party who does it.

[mnky9800n]

Then we should call USA a terrorist organisation. They have caused more harm than Hamas could ever dream of.

[jjgreen]

"Shock and awe" is a pretty good description of terror.

[sokoloff]

“Shock and awe” as a military tactic against military targets in a war may be terrifying (and intentionally so) but is not an act of terrorism, IMO.

[jjgreen]

I'll not argue your point, but I think the IMO does illustrate why the BBC is absolutely right to avoid using the term. Various governments, organisations, people try to define terrorism, but always meet the response "well, didn't the USA do that in Vietnam" or "didn't the British do that in Ireland", and they did. So now it is generally left undefined, or defined by diktat (see "it is a fact of law" mentioned above). In other words it is a yah-boo word, it means "use violence that I disapprove of", it has no place in reporting.

[rewmie]

> Never have I said anything of being pro whomever, only condemming the act with the intention of spreading fear.

You've tried to accuse a journalism organization of condoning terrorism just because they explained why in general, due to the organization's founding principles, they refuse to use loaded words.

You've repeatedly missed their point, and unwittingly you're making their point as well.

[xeox538]

Ok perhaps I did, maybe I was wrong with the example of the bbc. Other news outlets consistently make use of superlatives and after browsing other articles I must admit I didnt find any on their site. And with my initial post I didnt say they condoned it. I said it is almost like they condone it. These carefull use of words where to have the possibility of saving face and it is the same for journalism. Fact is most countries have defined Hamas as a terrorist organisation as is the UK even before these events. These events fit the general definition of terrorism is it not? I understand they are also more carefull now with their words because of the fine balance. I only argue I see it differently and contest their frame.