Final answer:
Since 2009, the threat of home-grown terrorism has escalated due to the proliferation of social media and the spread of extremist beliefs. The U.S. response includes the creation of DHS and legislative changes aimed at improving intelligence and surveillance. The problem of terrorism has become more complex with the involvement of non-state actors like al-Qaeda and ISIS.
Step-by-step explanation:
Evolution of 'Home-Grown' Terrorism Since 2009
Since 2009, the threat of domestic terrorism has evolved significantly, factoring in various social, political, and technological changes. Notably, the rise of social media has been a double-edged sword; while it has enabled unprecedented connectivity, it has also allowed for the rapid spread of extremist ideologies. Consequently, individuals or small groups can become radicalized without direct contact with terrorist organizations, leading to so-called 'lone wolf' attacks. These home-grown terrorists often act based on racial, ethnic, or political motives, and their methods include bombings, stabbings, and using vehicles as weapons. The U.S. government's response to the escalating threat includes creating the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and implementing the USA Patriot Act, aiming to enhance coordination among agencies and increase surveillance capabilities. DHS has recorded 231 cases of domestic terrorism between 2010 and 2021, emphasizing the growing concern. Furthermore, shifts in citizens' beliefs and the increasing polarization of political ideologies contribute to the complex nature of addressing home-grown terrorism .Global terrorism is not limited to the United States, as Europe has also faced similar challenges. Groups like al-Qaeda and ISIS, without being tied to a singular nation-state, have presented a new category of non-state enemies. As the threat landscape shifts, a multifaceted approach that includes collaboration, surveillance, and targeted military actions is necessary to effectively combat these emergent forms of terrorism.