Religious fundamentalism

Definition

Religious fundamentalism is a strict adherence to specific beliefs and doctrines within a religion, often characterized by a desire to return to what adherents view as the original principles of their faith. This movement can emerge as a response to perceived threats from modernity, secularism, and globalization, leading to a push for traditional values and practices. Religious fundamentalism can be found across various faiths, influencing social, political, and cultural dynamics in many regions worldwide.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Religious fundamentalism can arise as a reaction to cultural changes and perceived moral decline associated with globalization and modernity.
2. Fundamentalist movements often seek to establish or restore religious laws and customs within society, aiming for governance that reflects their beliefs.
3. In some cases, religious fundamentalism has led to increased inter-religious tensions and conflicts as groups assert their ideologies more aggressively.
4. Many fundamentalist groups utilize modern technology and media to spread their messages and recruit followers, highlighting the paradox of traditionalism within a globalized context.
5. Religious fundamentalism can vary greatly in expression from peaceful advocacy and community organization to militant activism and violence.

Review Questions

• How does religious fundamentalism serve as a response to globalization and modernization?
  • Religious fundamentalism often emerges as a reaction against the perceived threats posed by globalization and modernization. As societies become more interconnected and secular values gain prominence, individuals within certain religious communities may feel their traditional beliefs are under attack. This can lead to a desire to return to foundational teachings and practices of their faith as a way to reclaim identity and moral authority in a rapidly changing world.
• Discuss the role of religious fundamentalism in shaping political movements in various regions around the world.
  • Religious fundamentalism has played a significant role in shaping political movements across different regions. In many cases, fundamentalist groups have sought to influence or directly control government policies to align with their religious values. This has led to increased tensions between secular governments and fundamentalist factions, often resulting in conflicts over issues such as education, women's rights, and freedom of expression. The impact of these movements can be seen in both democratic societies and authoritarian regimes where religion intertwines with state power.
• Evaluate the implications of religious fundamentalism on global interfaith relations in the context of cultural diversity.
  • Religious fundamentalism poses complex challenges for global interfaith relations amid increasing cultural diversity. While some fundamentalist groups advocate for dialogue and coexistence based on mutual respect, others may adopt exclusionary or aggressive stances against differing beliefs. This divergence can lead to heightened tensions between communities, making it difficult to foster understanding and collaboration across faiths. The implications extend beyond local contexts; they contribute to broader geopolitical issues as interfaith conflicts can spill over into international relations, affecting peace efforts and global stability.

Related terms

Evangelicalism: A movement within Protestant Christianity that emphasizes the authority of the Bible, personal conversion experiences, and active sharing of the faith.

Secularism: The principle of separating religion from political, social, and educational institutions, promoting a non-religious public sphere.

Millenarianism: The belief in a coming major transformation of society, often associated with the idea that the world will undergo a radical change or renewal.