key term - Religious fundamentalism

Definition

Religious fundamentalism is a strict and literal interpretation of sacred texts and beliefs within a particular religion, often accompanied by a desire to return to what adherents perceive as the original principles of their faith. This movement can arise as a reaction to perceived threats from modernity, secularism, or other belief systems, leading to a strong commitment to traditional values and practices.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Religious fundamentalism can be found across various religions, including Christianity, Islam, Judaism, and Hinduism, each having its unique expressions and motivations.
2. Fundamentalist movements often emphasize a return to traditional values and practices, rejecting modern interpretations or adaptations of their faith.
3. In many cases, religious fundamentalism is associated with political activism, as groups seek to influence laws and policies based on their beliefs.
4. Fundamentalist groups may perceive themselves as being under siege from globalization and secular ideologies, which they view as threats to their way of life.
5. The rise of religious fundamentalism in the modern world has led to increased tensions and conflicts both within and between societies, often manifesting in violence or extreme rhetoric.

Review Questions

• How does religious fundamentalism differ from more liberal interpretations of religion?
  • Religious fundamentalism differs from liberal interpretations by adhering strictly to traditional texts and doctrines, while liberal approaches allow for reinterpretation and adaptation of beliefs to align with contemporary values. Fundamentalists often reject modernity and emphasize returning to original principles of faith. This dichotomy highlights the tensions within religious communities regarding how to engage with modern society.
• Discuss the relationship between religious fundamentalism and political movements in contemporary society.
  • Religious fundamentalism often intersects with political movements as groups seek to impose their beliefs on societal structures and laws. In many contexts, fundamentalist groups have become politically active, advocating for policies that reflect their interpretation of religious teachings. This relationship can lead to polarization in societies where secular and religious values clash, creating significant social and political tensions.
• Evaluate the impact of religious fundamentalism on global relations and conflict in the modern world.
  • Religious fundamentalism significantly impacts global relations by contributing to conflicts that arise from ideological differences. Fundamentalist groups often oppose secular or pluralistic societies, leading to tensions that can escalate into violence or terrorism. Additionally, this type of extremism can fuel xenophobia and nationalism in response to perceived external threats. The resulting conflicts not only destabilize regions but also challenge international relations as countries grapple with how to address these ideologies while promoting peace.

Related terms

Orthodoxy: The adherence to accepted norms, especially in religious beliefs, often seen as conventional or traditional practices.

Sectarianism: The division within a larger religious group into smaller factions or sects, often leading to conflict and tension.

Millenarianism: The belief in a coming major transformation of society, often linked to the end times or the establishment of a utopian world.