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Religiosity and Terrorism: Evidence from Ramadan Fasting

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  • Roland Hodler
  • Paul A. Raschky
  • Anthony Strittmatter

Abstract

This study examines the effect of religiosity on terrorism by focusing on one of the five pillars of Islam: Ramadan fasting. For identification, we exploit two facts: First, daily fasting from dawn to sunset during Ramadan is considered mandatory for most Muslims. Second, the Islamic calendar is not synchronized with the solar cycle. We find a robust negative effect of more intense Ramadan fasting on terrorist events within districts and country-years in predominantly Muslim countries. We argue that this effect partly operates through a decrease in public support for terrorism, which in turn reduces the operational capabilities of terrorist groups.

Suggested Citation

  • Roland Hodler & Paul A. Raschky & Anthony Strittmatter, 2018. "Religiosity and Terrorism: Evidence from Ramadan Fasting," CESifo Working Paper Series 7313, CESifo.
    • Handle: RePEc:ces:ceswps:_7313
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    More about this item

    Keywords

    terrorism; economics of religion;

    JEL classification:

    • D74 - Microeconomics - - Analysis of Collective Decision-Making - - - Conflict; Conflict Resolution; Alliances; Revolutions
    • H56 - Public Economics - - National Government Expenditures and Related Policies - - - National Security and War
    • Z12 - Other Special Topics - - Cultural Economics - - - Religion

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