Which statement best defines terrorism?

The most accurately defined statement regarding terrorism is that it involves the unlawful use or threatened use of force by individuals or organized groups against people or property for the purpose of intimidation. This definition encompasses several key aspects of terrorism: the unlawful nature of the acts, the intended target (people or property), and the overarching purpose of instilling fear or intimidation to achieve a political, ideological, or social goal.

This comprehensive definition recognizes that terrorism can be executed by individuals or groups, reinforcing the organized nature of many terrorist activities. Additionally, the element of intimidation is critical, as it highlights that the aim of terrorism is not merely to cause harm but to manipulate societal behavior or government actions through fear. This sets it apart from other forms of violence that may not have such a deliberate intention to influence broader societal or governmental outcomes.

Other options may touch on various aspects of violent acts but lack the full scope of terrorism's motivations, targets, and impacts on society and governance, which is essential for accurately defining terrorism in its true context.