Generative AI and Autonomous Radicalization: Reshaping the future of Lone-Actor Terrorism

http://dx.doi.org/10.31703/gpr.2026(XI-II).08      10.31703/gpr.2026(XI-II).08      Published : Jun 2026      Views: 2      Downloads: 0
Authored by : Aisha Sarwar , Syed Kaleem Imam

08 Pages : 96-107

http://dx.doi.org/10.31703/gpr.2026(XI-II).08      10.31703/gpr.2026(XI-II).08      Published : Jun 2026

Generative AI and Autonomous Radicalization: Reshaping the future of Lone-Actor Terrorism

    The emergence of Generative artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly transforming the digital ecosystems in which radicalization may occur easily. Earlier, search engines recommended limited information, mostly based on specific queries. AI has empowered human-machine interaction in a more personalized, continuous and adaptive way. This article examines the relationship between Generative AI, autonomous radicalization and lone-actor terrorism by integrating established theories, including Moghaddam’s Staircase to Terrorism, Bandura’s Social Learning Theory, and Kruglanski’s 3N Model and proposes an Interactive Radicalization Interface (IRI). This model of radicalization provide a framework to understand grievances, AI-mediated interaction, narrative construction, reinforcement and ideological progression. The study argues that AI operate as a force multiplier of vulnerability but does not cause radicalization or terrorism. The transition from passive exposure to interactive reinforcement without AI governance has raised concerns for prevention and Counterterrorism strategies.

    Artificial Intelligence, Autonomous Radicalization, Generative AI, Interactive Radicalization Interface, Lone-Actor Terrorism, Online Radicalization, Terrorism
    (1) Aisha Sarwar
    Clinical Psychologist / Scholar, Terrorism and Political Violence, National Defense University (NDU), Islamabad, Pakistan.
    (2) Syed Kaleem Imam
    Former Federal Secretary / IGP / UN Police Commissioner, Pakistan.

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    APA : Sarwar, A., & Imam, S. K. (2026). Generative AI and Autonomous Radicalization: Reshaping the future of Lone-Actor Terrorism. Global Political Review, XI(II), 96-107. https://doi.org/10.31703/gpr.2026(XI-II).08
    CHICAGO : Sarwar, Aisha, and Syed Kaleem Imam. 2026. "Generative AI and Autonomous Radicalization: Reshaping the future of Lone-Actor Terrorism." Global Political Review, XI (II): 96-107 doi: 10.31703/gpr.2026(XI-II).08
    HARVARD : SARWAR, A. & IMAM, S. K. 2026. Generative AI and Autonomous Radicalization: Reshaping the future of Lone-Actor Terrorism. Global Political Review, XI, 96-107.
    MHRA : Sarwar, Aisha, and Syed Kaleem Imam. 2026. "Generative AI and Autonomous Radicalization: Reshaping the future of Lone-Actor Terrorism." Global Political Review, XI: 96-107
    MLA : Sarwar, Aisha, and Syed Kaleem Imam. "Generative AI and Autonomous Radicalization: Reshaping the future of Lone-Actor Terrorism." Global Political Review, XI.II (2026): 96-107 Print.
    OXFORD : Sarwar, Aisha and Imam, Syed Kaleem (2026), "Generative AI and Autonomous Radicalization: Reshaping the future of Lone-Actor Terrorism", Global Political Review, XI (II), 96-107
    TURABIAN : Sarwar, Aisha, and Syed Kaleem Imam. "Generative AI and Autonomous Radicalization: Reshaping the future of Lone-Actor Terrorism." Global Political Review XI, no. II (2026): 96-107. https://doi.org/10.31703/gpr.2026(XI-II).08