Question

which question would best help you determine whether the attacks in paris were an act of terrorism?
a. were the attacks meant to change french policy by creating fear?
b. were the attackers motivated by their religion?
c. were the attacks planned by individuals from outside france?
d. was the number of people killed and injured very large?

Explanation:

Terrorism is generally defined as the use of violence and intimidation in the pursuit of political aims, often involving creating fear to influence policy. Option A directly relates to this key aspect. Option B - while some terrorists may be religiously motivated, not all religiously motivated actions are terrorism and not all terrorism is religiously motivated. Option C - the origin of the attackers (inside or outside the country) is not the core determinant of whether an act is terrorism. Option D - the scale of casualties (though a tragic outcome) is not the defining factor of terrorism.

Answer:

A. Were the attacks meant to change French policy by creating fear?