The Problem of Fundamentalism
Religious Studies: KS3, topic 3.3.12
The Problem of Fundamentalism
What are the problems with fundamentalism?
A literal reading
- All major religions have their holy books, called scripture.
- They were written many years ago, and sometimes it is not known who wrote down the text.
- Nevertheless, some religions consider the scriptures to be inspired by God.
- They therefore believe the scripture contains what is true and right.
- There are a number of problems with this claim.
Problems with fundamentalism
- Not all scriptures can be true because often they do not agree with each other.
- They might disagree on the nature of God or about the right behaviour.
Face value ideas
- If we accept all of the teaching at face value, then this would allow:
- Killing homosexuals and adulterers
- Forcing women to dress in a way that covers all of their bodies
- Forcing people to accept a particular religion or be killed
- Promoting the superiority of white people
- Any many more...
- Religious fundamentalists are believers who accept some or all of these ideas.
Who are fundamentalists?
- Religious fundamentalists argue that these ideas are in the scripture, and that the scripture comes from God.
- Therefore, they argue, these ideas must be followed.
- At the most extreme, they are willing to use violence and terror to get their way.
Rejection by the majority
- The use of violence is at odds with most followers of the major religions.
- The majority of religious people say either that the teachings are out of date, or are misunderstood.
- Or they believe some of the teachings but accept that they cannot impose their beliefs on others in a democratic society.
- For most, it is more important to live in a society where people are free to behave as they choose.
Test yourself on The Problem of Fundamentalism
Which of these is an example of something a fundamentalist reading of religious scripture would allow?