Fundamentalism

Definition

Fundamentalism is a strict adherence to specific theological doctrines, often characterized by a literal interpretation of sacred texts and a desire to return to what is perceived as the original principles of faith. This concept is often linked to religious resurgence movements that seek to reclaim authority in the face of modernity, nationalism, and globalization, as well as impacting political ideologies and international relations.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Fundamentalism emerged in the early 20th century as a response to modernist interpretations of religion and secular influences on society.
2. It can manifest in various religions, including Christianity, Islam, Judaism, and Hinduism, each with unique interpretations and practices.
3. Fundamentalist movements often aim to establish a society based on their religious laws and principles, which can lead to tensions with secular governments.
4. The rise of fundamentalism has been linked to globalization, where rapid cultural changes may lead individuals to cling more tightly to traditional beliefs.
5. Fundamentalism can significantly affect international relations, often leading to conflicts where religious identity becomes intertwined with national interests.

Review Questions

• How does fundamentalism serve as a reaction to modernity and its challenges?
  • Fundamentalism arises as a reaction against the perceived threats posed by modernity, such as secularism, scientific reasoning, and cultural globalization. Adherents often feel that their traditional values are under attack and seek to reaffirm their beliefs through a literal interpretation of sacred texts. This reaction can lead to movements that emphasize a return to foundational principles of faith, aiming to counteract what they see as moral decay or loss of identity due to modern influences.
• Discuss the relationship between fundamentalism and political theology, focusing on how religious beliefs can shape political ideologies.
  • Fundamentalism often intersects with political theology by infusing religious beliefs into political ideologies. Fundamentalists typically advocate for the implementation of their religious laws in governance and assert that their faith provides the ultimate authority over societal norms. This can lead to movements where religious identity significantly influences national policies and international relations, highlighting tensions between secular governance and religious governance.
• Evaluate the impact of fundamentalism on globalization and international relations in the contemporary world.
  • The rise of fundamentalism has had profound effects on globalization and international relations. In many cases, fundamentalist groups react against global cultural influences by promoting isolationist or confrontational policies that challenge Western ideologies. This dynamic can lead to increased tensions between nations where fundamentalist movements resist external influences while attempting to assert their own cultural identities. Additionally, the interaction between fundamentalist groups and states can shape geopolitical strategies, creating conflicts that echo across international borders.

Related terms

Literalism: The practice of interpreting texts in their most basic sense, without considering the context or underlying meanings, often associated with fundamentalist approaches.

Religious Nationalism:

A political ideology that combines nationalist sentiments with religious beliefs, advocating for the alignment of national identity with religious identity.

Modernism: A broad cultural, artistic, and intellectual movement that emerged in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, often characterized by a break from traditional forms and an embrace of innovation and change.