Both types view established government as a form of organized violence and thus claim the right to kill anyone. Political terrorism is often a manifestation of ideological fanaticism, becoming a symbolic metaphor and a political statement. The messianic impulse also runs through terrorists' writings. While some theorists have viewed alienation as motivating terrorist behavior, it cannot explain terrorism's violence and irrationality. There has also been a tendency to confuse ideologically motivated terrorists with legitimate heroes because their statements and motivations attract serious attention, ignoring the consequences of the violent acts. Moreover, terrorists mask themselves in the trappings of political bandits who steal from the state to provide for the downtrodden. Alleged purity of motive, however, cannot excuse wanton and willful criminal conduct. The terrorists' wrath of the righteous reflects narcissistic anger, and terrorism has become a psychic religion with its actions ritualized and destruction confused with salvation. Drugs frequently are required to reach the level of frenzy necessary for this attitude, but violence itself may be the ultimate stimulant. Anonymity is the protective shield of political terrorists and characterizes their methods of operation. Finally, all terrorists are aware of the effects of publicity and the media's influential role. Over 80 footnotes are included.