Since September 11, 2001, the United States has been gripped in an epic struggle against terrorism. The attacks on the United States homeland paralyzed the nation with a sense of vulnerability, but instilled a resolve to retaliate and take the offensive to defeat terrorism. This has manifested itself in the Global War on Terror and led to the U.S. invasions of Afghanistan and Iraq to force regime change upon a terrorist sanctuary and a rogue state respectively. After nearly a decade of pursuing a war on terror, it appears that U.S. efforts are failing to effectively combat terrorism and radical extremism is on the rise. U.S. actions are failing because policies do not reflect a basic understanding of the terror threat and the proper way to counter it. This paper examines flaws in pursuing a "War on Terror," questions whether a tactic such as terrorism can be defeated, and explores environmental components of the security problem which might further the discussion toward a coherent policy to contain the effects of terrorism. Understanding underlying causes of extremism, devising strategies that undercut support and legitimacy of terrorist movements, and addressing the wider issues contributing to instability are essential to an effective policy.