In 2018, it’s more appropriate to see al-Qaeda as not only a terrorist group, albeit one that’s less engaged in mass-casualty attacks but as the progenitor and promoter of a distinct theological–historical–political ideology.

This special report aims to explain the persistent and enduring allure of al-Qaedaism as an ideology that is apocalyptic and conspiratorial.

By understanding al-Qaedaism, we could better counter the violence that it perpetrates, inspires and advocates and recognize that we’re engaging in a cosmic, generational conflict, led by individuals who corrupt the key tenets of Islam.