Definition of Terrorism

Definition of terrorism according to Steven Pinker: Premeditated violence perpetrated by a non-state actor, against non-combatants (civilians or off-duty soldiers) in pursuit of a political, religious, or social goal, designed to coerce a government or to intimidate or convey a message to a larger audience.

~ Steven Pinker (born:1954-09-18 age:61) The Better Angels of Our Nature: Why Violence Has Declined

I disagree with this definition because occupying or invading troops still rate as combatants whether they are on patrol, having lunch, sleeping or taking a pee. To count as non-combatants they should not be killing people. Pinker’s definition conflicts with Caleb Carr’s definition in that it precludes the possibility of a state actor’s deeds being described as terrorism. I prefer Carr’s definition because the infamy comes from the deed, not who does it.