Past Events

Punctuated Equilibria Paradigm and Security in the Modern World
Punctuated Equilibria Paradigm and Security in the Modern World
Since the 1970s, the theories of punctuated equilibria and multiplier effect have been gaining importance and significance, including to militaries around the world. Developed versions adapted to complex societies may be considered one of the most promising and strategic avenues of research in socia...

     From the International Center for Terrorism Studies (ICTS) at the Potomac Institute for Policy Studies:

A Special Seminar on

"Terrorism Captives: Tactical, Legal, and Strategic Implications"

Kidnapping and hostage taking by state and non-state actors constitute a permanent fixture of terrorist tactics that is attractive and effective. The latest media focus on American and foreign captives in Iran, Syria, and elsewhere provides an opportunity to assess the historical lessons learned, anticipate future challenges, and recommend "best practices" response strategies on national, regional, and global levels.

These topics and related concerns such as piracy, hijacking, negotiations, ransom, and military rescue missions were discussed by former and current officials and academics. 

This event hosted several distinguished speakers:

Professor Don Wallace Jr, Chairman of the International Law Institute
Professor Yonah Alexander, Director, Inter-University Center for Terrorism Studies, and Senior Fellow, Potomac Institute for Policy Studies
Ambassador (Ret.) Edward Marks,Former U.S. Department of State Deputy Coordinator for Counter-Terrorism and Director, Arthur D. Simons Center for Interagency Cooperation
Dr. Wayne H. Zaideman, Former FBI Legal Attaché in the Middle East
Ifat Reshef, Minister for Middle Eastern and Counter-Terrorism Affairs, Embassy of Israel
Dr. Harlan K. Ullman, Senior Advisor at the Atlantic Council and Business Executives for National Security
General Alfred Gray, USMC (Ret.), Twenty-Ninth Commandant of the United States Marine Corps; Senior Fellow and Chairman of the Board of Regents, Potomac Institute for Policy Studies

For more information on the International Center for Terrorism Studies, please visit their website

You can view a video of this seminar on CSPAN or watch it here