Religious Fundamentalism
Religious Studies: KS3, topic 3.3.11
Religious Fundamentalism
The two main examples of extremism are political and religious. This section will focus on religious extremism.
Religious extremism
- So many religions promote messages of peace and love.
- So why is it that some religious people become intolerant of others?
- Why do some people adopt extreme ideas and use violence to support their cause?
Examples of religious extremism
- Many people are aware of what is called Islamic Terrorism.
- There are certain groups within the Muslim religion who hold very extreme views and use terror to push their ideas.
- Such groups include ISIS and Al Qaeda.
- But, importantly, they are not alone.
- There are extremists within all religions.
Christian extremism
- Within Christianity we can look at the example of anti-abortion violence.
- Many Christians oppose abortion, but for most it is a personal viewpoint.
- But there are some Christians who use terrorism to try to force a change in the law.
- For example, there is a group called the Army of God in the United States.
- Some of its members have been convicted of the murder of doctors who have performed abortions.
Test yourself on Religious Fundamentalism
Which of these religious groups contain extremists?