James Jones
- Published in print:
- 2008
- Published Online:
- May 2008
- ISBN:
- 9780195335972
- eISBN:
- 9780199868957
- Item type:
- book
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780195335972.001.0001
- Subject:
- Religion, Islam
Religiously motivated terrorism is a religious phenomenon; thus the psychology of religiously motivated terrorism is the psychology of religion. For many decades the author of this book has been ...
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Religiously motivated terrorism is a religious phenomenon; thus the psychology of religiously motivated terrorism is the psychology of religion. For many decades the author of this book has been working in the discipline of the psychology of religion as both a professor of religious studies and a practicing clinical psychologist. Here he applies that work to the topic of religious terrorism, addressing it from both perspectives. Both the clinician’s concern with the dynamics of individual personalities and the scholar’s knowledge of the diversity and complexity of the religious life enter into this book. This book analyzes the psychological dynamics involved in religiously motivated violence and discusses how understanding those dynamics can contribute to understanding both the psychology of religion and contemporary, religiously motivated terrorism. In the literature on this topic there is a paucity of discussion of both of these factors—the psychodynamics of religious terrorism and the religious aspect itself. This dual perspective on a topic of obvious interest and importance is unique to this book. Besides the psychology of religiously motivated terrorism, chapters include contemporary terrorism as seen from multiple perspectives, Islamic terrorism in the context of world religions, Aum Shrinkyo, American apocalyptic Christianity, what this perspective tells us about religion, and religious responses to terrorism.Less
Religiously motivated terrorism is a religious phenomenon; thus the psychology of religiously motivated terrorism is the psychology of religion. For many decades the author of this book has been working in the discipline of the psychology of religion as both a professor of religious studies and a practicing clinical psychologist. Here he applies that work to the topic of religious terrorism, addressing it from both perspectives. Both the clinician’s concern with the dynamics of individual personalities and the scholar’s knowledge of the diversity and complexity of the religious life enter into this book. This book analyzes the psychological dynamics involved in religiously motivated violence and discusses how understanding those dynamics can contribute to understanding both the psychology of religion and contemporary, religiously motivated terrorism. In the literature on this topic there is a paucity of discussion of both of these factors—the psychodynamics of religious terrorism and the religious aspect itself. This dual perspective on a topic of obvious interest and importance is unique to this book. Besides the psychology of religiously motivated terrorism, chapters include contemporary terrorism as seen from multiple perspectives, Islamic terrorism in the context of world religions, Aum Shrinkyo, American apocalyptic Christianity, what this perspective tells us about religion, and religious responses to terrorism.
Jacqueline Mariña
- Published in print:
- 2008
- Published Online:
- May 2008
- ISBN:
- 9780199206377
- eISBN:
- 9780191709753
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780199206377.003.0010
- Subject:
- Religion, Philosophy of Religion
This concluding chapter stresses the importance of Schleieramacher's achievement for contemporary thought about both ethics and the relation between ethics and religion. Contemporary issues such as ...
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This concluding chapter stresses the importance of Schleieramacher's achievement for contemporary thought about both ethics and the relation between ethics and religion. Contemporary issues such as religious violence and fundamentalism are discussed.Less
This concluding chapter stresses the importance of Schleieramacher's achievement for contemporary thought about both ethics and the relation between ethics and religion. Contemporary issues such as religious violence and fundamentalism are discussed.
James Barr
- Published in print:
- 2000
- Published Online:
- November 2003
- ISBN:
- 9780198269878
- eISBN:
- 9780191600401
- Item type:
- book
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/0198269870.001.0001
- Subject:
- Religion, Biblical Studies
Is the Bible historically true? Or are its narratives the expression of the ideologies of partisan groups far removed in time from the events depicted? The questions are not new, but are now being ...
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Is the Bible historically true? Or are its narratives the expression of the ideologies of partisan groups far removed in time from the events depicted? The questions are not new, but are now being posed in a different terminology and outlook, often characterized as postmodernism. The book goes back to redefine the term ‘biblical criticism’ and concentrates on some examples from the history of Israel. An attempt is made to clarify the possible meanings of ‘ideology’ and some relations between postmodernism and theology are examined. Tradition and continuity are to be prized in contrast to the feverish grasp at novelty.Less
Is the Bible historically true? Or are its narratives the expression of the ideologies of partisan groups far removed in time from the events depicted? The questions are not new, but are now being posed in a different terminology and outlook, often characterized as postmodernism. The book goes back to redefine the term ‘biblical criticism’ and concentrates on some examples from the history of Israel. An attempt is made to clarify the possible meanings of ‘ideology’ and some relations between postmodernism and theology are examined. Tradition and continuity are to be prized in contrast to the feverish grasp at novelty.
Solomon Schimmel
- Published in print:
- 2008
- Published Online:
- September 2008
- ISBN:
- 9780195188264
- eISBN:
- 9780199870509
- Item type:
- book
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780195188264.001.0001
- Subject:
- Religion, Philosophy of Religion
This book is a passionate yet analytical critique of and polemic against Jewish, Christian, and Muslim scriptural fundamentalists. It examines the ways in which otherwise intelligent and bright Jews, ...
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This book is a passionate yet analytical critique of and polemic against Jewish, Christian, and Muslim scriptural fundamentalists. It examines the ways in which otherwise intelligent and bright Jews, Christians, and Muslims defend their belief in the divine authorship of the Bible or of the Koran, as well as other religious beliefs derived from those claims, against overwhelming evidence and argument to the contrary from science, scholarship, common sense, and rational analysis. The book also examines the motives, fears, and anxieties of scriptural fundamentalists that induce them to cling tenaciously to their unreasonable beliefs. The author begins with reflections on his own journey from commitment to Orthodox Judaism, through doubts about its theological claims, and eventually to denial of their truth. This is followed by an examination of theological and philosophical debate about the proper relationships between faith, reason, and revelation. The book then devotes one chapter of detailed analysis to Jewish, Christian, and Muslim scriptural fundamentalism, noting their differences and similarities. It then analyzes the psychological and social reasons why people acquire, maintain, and protect unreasonable religious beliefs. The book also discusses some unethical and immoral consequences of scriptural fundamentalism, such as gender inequality, homophobia, lack of intellectual honesty, self‐righteousness, intolerance, propagation of falsehood, and in some instances (especially among some Muslim fundamentalists) the advocacy of violence and terrorism. It concludes with a discussion of why, when, and where it is appropriate to critique and assertively challenge and combat scriptural fundamentalists.Less
This book is a passionate yet analytical critique of and polemic against Jewish, Christian, and Muslim scriptural fundamentalists. It examines the ways in which otherwise intelligent and bright Jews, Christians, and Muslims defend their belief in the divine authorship of the Bible or of the Koran, as well as other religious beliefs derived from those claims, against overwhelming evidence and argument to the contrary from science, scholarship, common sense, and rational analysis. The book also examines the motives, fears, and anxieties of scriptural fundamentalists that induce them to cling tenaciously to their unreasonable beliefs. The author begins with reflections on his own journey from commitment to Orthodox Judaism, through doubts about its theological claims, and eventually to denial of their truth. This is followed by an examination of theological and philosophical debate about the proper relationships between faith, reason, and revelation. The book then devotes one chapter of detailed analysis to Jewish, Christian, and Muslim scriptural fundamentalism, noting their differences and similarities. It then analyzes the psychological and social reasons why people acquire, maintain, and protect unreasonable religious beliefs. The book also discusses some unethical and immoral consequences of scriptural fundamentalism, such as gender inequality, homophobia, lack of intellectual honesty, self‐righteousness, intolerance, propagation of falsehood, and in some instances (especially among some Muslim fundamentalists) the advocacy of violence and terrorism. It concludes with a discussion of why, when, and where it is appropriate to critique and assertively challenge and combat scriptural fundamentalists.
Gerhard Bowering (ed.)
- Published in print:
- 2015
- Published Online:
- October 2017
- ISBN:
- 9780691164823
- eISBN:
- 9781400866427
- Item type:
- book
- Publisher:
- Princeton University Press
- DOI:
- 10.23943/princeton/9780691164823.001.0001
- Subject:
- Religion, Islam
In sixteen concise chapters on key topics, this book provides a rich, authoritative, and up-to-date introduction to Islamic political thought from the birth of Islam to today, presenting essential ...
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In sixteen concise chapters on key topics, this book provides a rich, authoritative, and up-to-date introduction to Islamic political thought from the birth of Islam to today, presenting essential background and context for understanding contemporary politics in the Islamic world and beyond. Selected from the acclaimed Princeton Encyclopedia of Islamic Political Thought, and focusing on the origins, development, and contemporary importance of Islamic political ideas and related subjects, each chapter offers a sophisticated yet accessible introduction to its topic. Written by leading specialists and incorporating the latest scholarship, the alphabetically arranged chapters cover the topics of authority, the caliphate, fundamentalism, government, jihad, knowledge, minorities, modernity, Muhammad, pluralism and tolerance, the Qur'an, revival and reform, shari'a (sacred law), traditional political thought, ‘ulama’ (religious scholars), and women. Read separately or together, these chapters provide an indispensable resource for students, journalists, policymakers, and anyone else seeking an informed perspective on the complex intersection of Islam and politics.Less
In sixteen concise chapters on key topics, this book provides a rich, authoritative, and up-to-date introduction to Islamic political thought from the birth of Islam to today, presenting essential background and context for understanding contemporary politics in the Islamic world and beyond. Selected from the acclaimed Princeton Encyclopedia of Islamic Political Thought, and focusing on the origins, development, and contemporary importance of Islamic political ideas and related subjects, each chapter offers a sophisticated yet accessible introduction to its topic. Written by leading specialists and incorporating the latest scholarship, the alphabetically arranged chapters cover the topics of authority, the caliphate, fundamentalism, government, jihad, knowledge, minorities, modernity, Muhammad, pluralism and tolerance, the Qur'an, revival and reform, shari'a (sacred law), traditional political thought, ‘ulama’ (religious scholars), and women. Read separately or together, these chapters provide an indispensable resource for students, journalists, policymakers, and anyone else seeking an informed perspective on the complex intersection of Islam and politics.
Paul C. Gutjahr
- Published in print:
- 2011
- Published Online:
- May 2011
- ISBN:
- 9780199740420
- eISBN:
- 9780199894703
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780199740420.003.0000
- Subject:
- Religion, Church History
The Prologue argues for the importance of Charles Hodge in nineteenth-century American Protestantism through his publications (including forty years as the editor of the Biblical Repertory and ...
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The Prologue argues for the importance of Charles Hodge in nineteenth-century American Protestantism through his publications (including forty years as the editor of the Biblical Repertory and Princeton Review) and his fifty-six year career as a professor at Princeton Theological Seminary. It is impossible to fully understand the current shape of American Presbyterianism, American Calvinism, and much of twentieth-century Protestant Fundamentalism without carefully studying the theological influence of Charles Hodge.Less
The Prologue argues for the importance of Charles Hodge in nineteenth-century American Protestantism through his publications (including forty years as the editor of the Biblical Repertory and Princeton Review) and his fifty-six year career as a professor at Princeton Theological Seminary. It is impossible to fully understand the current shape of American Presbyterianism, American Calvinism, and much of twentieth-century Protestant Fundamentalism without carefully studying the theological influence of Charles Hodge.
Antony Black
- Published in print:
- 2008
- Published Online:
- May 2008
- ISBN:
- 9780199533206
- eISBN:
- 9780191714498
- Item type:
- book
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780199533206.001.0001
- Subject:
- Political Science, Political Theory
This history of political thought — philosophical argument and everyday attitudes — examines what the Western and Islamic approaches to politics had in common and where they diverged. Byzantium is ...
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This history of political thought — philosophical argument and everyday attitudes — examines what the Western and Islamic approaches to politics had in common and where they diverged. Byzantium is also compared. In all three civilizations, political and religious ideas were intertwined and issues of ‘church and state’ were crucial. This book considers how various ancient and medieval thought-patterns did or did not lead to modern developments; and how sacred monarchy, justice — revealed or natural — the legitimacy of the state, and the role of the people were looked upon in each culture. The book examines in particular the period from the rise of Islam to the end of the European Middle Ages, but account is taken of all genres of political thought up to the present. Up to the mid-11th century, Europe, Islam, and the Byzantine world had more in common than is commonly thought. What made the West different was the papal revolution of the late 11th century, Europe's 12th-century ‘renaissance’ and the gradual secularization of political thought which followed; while Islam, after an early blossoming, interpreted its revelation more and more narrowly. With a few major exceptions (Ibn Rushd, Ibn Khaldun), Islamic political philosophy declined after c.1100. European or Western political thought developed more slowly, but it developed continuously. It underwent major transformations and encompasses a wide variety of opinions. These influenced both the Islamic world (except for fundamentalists) and the post-Byzantine world of Russia.Less
This history of political thought — philosophical argument and everyday attitudes — examines what the Western and Islamic approaches to politics had in common and where they diverged. Byzantium is also compared. In all three civilizations, political and religious ideas were intertwined and issues of ‘church and state’ were crucial. This book considers how various ancient and medieval thought-patterns did or did not lead to modern developments; and how sacred monarchy, justice — revealed or natural — the legitimacy of the state, and the role of the people were looked upon in each culture. The book examines in particular the period from the rise of Islam to the end of the European Middle Ages, but account is taken of all genres of political thought up to the present. Up to the mid-11th century, Europe, Islam, and the Byzantine world had more in common than is commonly thought. What made the West different was the papal revolution of the late 11th century, Europe's 12th-century ‘renaissance’ and the gradual secularization of political thought which followed; while Islam, after an early blossoming, interpreted its revelation more and more narrowly. With a few major exceptions (Ibn Rushd, Ibn Khaldun), Islamic political philosophy declined after c.1100. European or Western political thought developed more slowly, but it developed continuously. It underwent major transformations and encompasses a wide variety of opinions. These influenced both the Islamic world (except for fundamentalists) and the post-Byzantine world of Russia.
Steve Bruce
- Published in print:
- 2007
- Published Online:
- September 2007
- ISBN:
- 9780199281022
- eISBN:
- 9780191712760
- Item type:
- book
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780199281022.001.0001
- Subject:
- Religion, Religion and Society
Ian Paisley is unique in having founded his own church and party, and led both to success. The Free Presbyterian Church of Ulster (FPCU) now has 150 congregations worldwide. The Democratic Unionist ...
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Ian Paisley is unique in having founded his own church and party, and led both to success. The Free Presbyterian Church of Ulster (FPCU) now has 150 congregations worldwide. The Democratic Unionist Party (DUP) is now the most popular party in Northern Ireland and, as the leader of the majority unionist population, Paisley has a veto over political developments in the province. This book draws on the author's twenty years of close acquaintance with Paisley's people and on his knowledge of religion and politics in other settings to describe and explain Paisleyism. Paisley's religious identity was an important part of his political appeal to a minority core of unionist voters, but his constant criticism of liberal and ecumenical trends in the major Protestant churches alienated many unionists. However, between 2000 and 2005, those unionists became so frustrated with the British Government's concessions to the Irish Republican movement that they finally set aside their dislike of Paisley's divisive religion and made the DUP the majority unionist party.Less
Ian Paisley is unique in having founded his own church and party, and led both to success. The Free Presbyterian Church of Ulster (FPCU) now has 150 congregations worldwide. The Democratic Unionist Party (DUP) is now the most popular party in Northern Ireland and, as the leader of the majority unionist population, Paisley has a veto over political developments in the province. This book draws on the author's twenty years of close acquaintance with Paisley's people and on his knowledge of religion and politics in other settings to describe and explain Paisleyism. Paisley's religious identity was an important part of his political appeal to a minority core of unionist voters, but his constant criticism of liberal and ecumenical trends in the major Protestant churches alienated many unionists. However, between 2000 and 2005, those unionists became so frustrated with the British Government's concessions to the Irish Republican movement that they finally set aside their dislike of Paisley's divisive religion and made the DUP the majority unionist party.
David Fergusson
- Published in print:
- 2009
- Published Online:
- October 2011
- ISBN:
- 9780199569380
- eISBN:
- 9780191702051
- Item type:
- book
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780199569380.001.0001
- Subject:
- Religion, Theology
This book discusses numerous wide-ranging, topical issues of faith, using various illustrations from contemporary life. It provides a historical, social, and rhetorical context for the ‘new atheism’, ...
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This book discusses numerous wide-ranging, topical issues of faith, using various illustrations from contemporary life. It provides a historical, social, and rhetorical context for the ‘new atheism’, and evaluates in depth, the relationship of religion to science, including a theological and scientific critique of both creationism and intelligent design theory. Critics of religion, such as Richard Dawkins, Daniel Dennet, and Sam Harris, are heralded as the exponents of a ‘new atheism’, and the book explains each of their work in its historical perspective, drawing comparisons with earlier forms of atheism. Responding to the critics through dialogue on the credibility of religious belief, Darwinism, morality, fundamentalism, and our approach to reading sacred texts, it establishes a compelling case for the practical and theoretical validity of faith in the contemporary world. This book supports an informed and constructive exchange of ideas rather than a contest between two sides of the debate. It encourages faith communities to undertake patient engagement with their critics and acknowledge the place for development in their self-understanding, whilst resisting the reductive explanations of the ‘new atheism’.Less
This book discusses numerous wide-ranging, topical issues of faith, using various illustrations from contemporary life. It provides a historical, social, and rhetorical context for the ‘new atheism’, and evaluates in depth, the relationship of religion to science, including a theological and scientific critique of both creationism and intelligent design theory. Critics of religion, such as Richard Dawkins, Daniel Dennet, and Sam Harris, are heralded as the exponents of a ‘new atheism’, and the book explains each of their work in its historical perspective, drawing comparisons with earlier forms of atheism. Responding to the critics through dialogue on the credibility of religious belief, Darwinism, morality, fundamentalism, and our approach to reading sacred texts, it establishes a compelling case for the practical and theoretical validity of faith in the contemporary world. This book supports an informed and constructive exchange of ideas rather than a contest between two sides of the debate. It encourages faith communities to undertake patient engagement with their critics and acknowledge the place for development in their self-understanding, whilst resisting the reductive explanations of the ‘new atheism’.
Charles B. Strozier and David Terman
- Published in print:
- 2010
- Published Online:
- May 2010
- ISBN:
- 9780195379655
- eISBN:
- 9780199777334
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780195379655.003.0000
- Subject:
- Religion, Religion and Society
This introductory chapter begins with the proposal that there is a psychology of fundamentalism, a mindset that transcends its particularity in contemporary religious movements. It argues that the ...
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This introductory chapter begins with the proposal that there is a psychology of fundamentalism, a mindset that transcends its particularity in contemporary religious movements. It argues that the mindset of fundamentalism is something more deeply ingrained in the self that finds expression in a variety of human institutions, including religion but by no means restricted to it, and has a history that gives it protean meanings over many centuries. The chapter then discusses the purpose of the book.Less
This introductory chapter begins with the proposal that there is a psychology of fundamentalism, a mindset that transcends its particularity in contemporary religious movements. It argues that the mindset of fundamentalism is something more deeply ingrained in the self that finds expression in a variety of human institutions, including religion but by no means restricted to it, and has a history that gives it protean meanings over many centuries. The chapter then discusses the purpose of the book.
Charles B. Strozier and Katharine Boyd
- Published in print:
- 2010
- Published Online:
- May 2010
- ISBN:
- 9780195379655
- eISBN:
- 9780199777334
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780195379655.003.0001
- Subject:
- Religion, Religion and Society
The fundamentalist mindset, wherever it occurs, is composed of distinct characteristics, including dualistic thinking; paranoia and rage in a group context; an apocalyptic orientation that ...
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The fundamentalist mindset, wherever it occurs, is composed of distinct characteristics, including dualistic thinking; paranoia and rage in a group context; an apocalyptic orientation that incorporates distinct perspectives on time, death, and violence; a relationship to charismatic leadership; and a totalized conversion experience. This chapter discusses how writers have conceptualized these characteristics in an effort to generate a comprehensive theoretical framework regarding the psychological understanding of the fundamentalist mindset.Less
The fundamentalist mindset, wherever it occurs, is composed of distinct characteristics, including dualistic thinking; paranoia and rage in a group context; an apocalyptic orientation that incorporates distinct perspectives on time, death, and violence; a relationship to charismatic leadership; and a totalized conversion experience. This chapter discusses how writers have conceptualized these characteristics in an effort to generate a comprehensive theoretical framework regarding the psychological understanding of the fundamentalist mindset.
Abdullahi A. An‐Na'im
- Published in print:
- 2005
- Published Online:
- January 2007
- ISBN:
- 9780195188356
- eISBN:
- 9780199785247
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780195188356.003.0002
- Subject:
- Religion, Religion and Society
This essay questions whether economic globalization and global civil society work against each other or in concert. Examining Islamic fundamentalism, Hindu nationalism, and Liberation Theology, it ...
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This essay questions whether economic globalization and global civil society work against each other or in concert. Examining Islamic fundamentalism, Hindu nationalism, and Liberation Theology, it proposes that there are possibilities of synergy and mediation between the two: the exclusivity and intolerance of some religious communities can be moderated by the impact of economic globalization, while economic globalization’s inattentiveness to social justice can be redressed through the moral guidance of religion.Less
This essay questions whether economic globalization and global civil society work against each other or in concert. Examining Islamic fundamentalism, Hindu nationalism, and Liberation Theology, it proposes that there are possibilities of synergy and mediation between the two: the exclusivity and intolerance of some religious communities can be moderated by the impact of economic globalization, while economic globalization’s inattentiveness to social justice can be redressed through the moral guidance of religion.
Nader Hashemi
- Published in print:
- 2009
- Published Online:
- May 2009
- ISBN:
- 9780195321241
- eISBN:
- 9780199869831
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780195321241.003.0002
- Subject:
- Religion, Islam
This chapter provides a historical context through which to examine the struggle for democracy in Muslim societies. It re‐examines the relationship between religion and political development through ...
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This chapter provides a historical context through which to examine the struggle for democracy in Muslim societies. It re‐examines the relationship between religion and political development through the long view of history. After reviewing the place of religion in liberal‐democratic and modernization theory, an alternative reading of on the rise of Islamic fundamentalism is provided. Drawing on key developments in the early modern European history and the scholarship of Fernand Braudel and Michael Walzer, parallels are discovered between the emergence of radical religious protest movements in the 16th/17th century Europe and similar events in the late 20th/early 21st century in the Middle East. The emphasis is on a sociological interpretation of religious fundamentalism. It is argued that historical depth is required to understand the relationship between religion and political development and that some forms of radical religious protest movements have a proto‐modern character to them.Less
This chapter provides a historical context through which to examine the struggle for democracy in Muslim societies. It re‐examines the relationship between religion and political development through the long view of history. After reviewing the place of religion in liberal‐democratic and modernization theory, an alternative reading of on the rise of Islamic fundamentalism is provided. Drawing on key developments in the early modern European history and the scholarship of Fernand Braudel and Michael Walzer, parallels are discovered between the emergence of radical religious protest movements in the 16th/17th century Europe and similar events in the late 20th/early 21st century in the Middle East. The emphasis is on a sociological interpretation of religious fundamentalism. It is argued that historical depth is required to understand the relationship between religion and political development and that some forms of radical religious protest movements have a proto‐modern character to them.
Charles B. Strozier, David M. Terman, James W. Jones, and Katherine A. Boyd
- Published in print:
- 2010
- Published Online:
- May 2010
- ISBN:
- 9780195379655
- eISBN:
- 9780199777334
- Item type:
- book
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780195379655.001.0001
- Subject:
- Religion, Religion and Society
This book sheds light on the psychology of fundamentalism, with a particular focus on those who become extremists and fanatics. What accounts for the violence that emerges among some fundamentalist ...
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This book sheds light on the psychology of fundamentalism, with a particular focus on those who become extremists and fanatics. What accounts for the violence that emerges among some fundamentalist groups? The contributors to this book identify several factors: a radical dualism, in which all aspects of life are bluntly categorized as either good or evil; a destructive inclination to interpret authoritative texts, laws, and teachings in the most literal of terms; an extreme and totalized conversion experience; paranoid thinking; and an apocalyptic world view. After examining each of these concepts in detail, and showing the ways in which they lead to violence among widely disparate groups, these essays explore such areas as fundamentalism in the American experience and among jihadists, and they illuminate aspects of the same psychology that contributed to such historical crises as the French Revolution, the Nazi movement, and post-Partition Hindu religious practice.Less
This book sheds light on the psychology of fundamentalism, with a particular focus on those who become extremists and fanatics. What accounts for the violence that emerges among some fundamentalist groups? The contributors to this book identify several factors: a radical dualism, in which all aspects of life are bluntly categorized as either good or evil; a destructive inclination to interpret authoritative texts, laws, and teachings in the most literal of terms; an extreme and totalized conversion experience; paranoid thinking; and an apocalyptic world view. After examining each of these concepts in detail, and showing the ways in which they lead to violence among widely disparate groups, these essays explore such areas as fundamentalism in the American experience and among jihadists, and they illuminate aspects of the same psychology that contributed to such historical crises as the French Revolution, the Nazi movement, and post-Partition Hindu religious practice.
Solomon Schimmel
- Published in print:
- 2008
- Published Online:
- September 2008
- ISBN:
- 9780195188264
- eISBN:
- 9780199870509
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780195188264.003.0004
- Subject:
- Religion, Philosophy of Religion
This chapter analyzes the doctrine of biblical inerrancy, the belief in the physical resurrection of Jesus, and the theology and practices of serpent‐handling sects. This chapter points out the ...
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This chapter analyzes the doctrine of biblical inerrancy, the belief in the physical resurrection of Jesus, and the theology and practices of serpent‐handling sects. This chapter points out the irrationality and circularity of the ‘proofs’ for ‘biblical inerrancy’ put forth by the evangelical Protestant theologian, Grudem. It then examines the claims of the fundamentalist Craig for the historicity of the physical resurrection of Jesus, and the views of the philosopher Flew, the New Testament scholar Ehrman, and the psychologist Kent, who provide naturalistic, non‐miraculous explanations for the origin and spread of the belief in Jesus' resurrection. The chapter, using Ralph Hood's concept of ‘intratextuality’ examines how members of the Pentecostal Church of God (Of Prophecy) sect, led by Hensley, derive from the Bible a mandate to handle venomous snakes in order to prove their Christian faith, and explains why their way of reading and interpreting the Bible makes no sense.Less
This chapter analyzes the doctrine of biblical inerrancy, the belief in the physical resurrection of Jesus, and the theology and practices of serpent‐handling sects. This chapter points out the irrationality and circularity of the ‘proofs’ for ‘biblical inerrancy’ put forth by the evangelical Protestant theologian, Grudem. It then examines the claims of the fundamentalist Craig for the historicity of the physical resurrection of Jesus, and the views of the philosopher Flew, the New Testament scholar Ehrman, and the psychologist Kent, who provide naturalistic, non‐miraculous explanations for the origin and spread of the belief in Jesus' resurrection. The chapter, using Ralph Hood's concept of ‘intratextuality’ examines how members of the Pentecostal Church of God (Of Prophecy) sect, led by Hensley, derive from the Bible a mandate to handle venomous snakes in order to prove their Christian faith, and explains why their way of reading and interpreting the Bible makes no sense.
Solomon Schimmel
- Published in print:
- 2008
- Published Online:
- September 2008
- ISBN:
- 9780195188264
- eISBN:
- 9780199870509
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780195188264.003.0005
- Subject:
- Religion, Philosophy of Religion
This chapter examines the Islamic belief that the Koran (Qur'an) was authored by Allah and revealed to Muhammad via the angel Gabriel, and dissects the alleged ‘proofs’ for Koranic divinity. The ...
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This chapter examines the Islamic belief that the Koran (Qur'an) was authored by Allah and revealed to Muhammad via the angel Gabriel, and dissects the alleged ‘proofs’ for Koranic divinity. The chapter presents nine arguments against this belief, among which are the Koran's internal contradictions, obvious dependence on Judaism, and Jewish and Christian traditions, factual errors, superstitious beliefs, and inclusion of unethical and immoral teachings. The chapter discusses the danger posed to democratic societies and values by fundamentalist Muslims who seek to impose Qur'anic and Sharia law and values on non‐Muslim societies, while noting that some Muslims advocate democracy and religious freedom. The chapter discusses the absurd claim of some Muslims that the Koran contains scientific knowledge that was not discovered in the West until recently, and the belief in Koranic inimitability (Ijaz al Koran), and analyzes the psychology of Muslims who make irrational claims and profess irrational beliefs.Less
This chapter examines the Islamic belief that the Koran (Qur'an) was authored by Allah and revealed to Muhammad via the angel Gabriel, and dissects the alleged ‘proofs’ for Koranic divinity. The chapter presents nine arguments against this belief, among which are the Koran's internal contradictions, obvious dependence on Judaism, and Jewish and Christian traditions, factual errors, superstitious beliefs, and inclusion of unethical and immoral teachings. The chapter discusses the danger posed to democratic societies and values by fundamentalist Muslims who seek to impose Qur'anic and Sharia law and values on non‐Muslim societies, while noting that some Muslims advocate democracy and religious freedom. The chapter discusses the absurd claim of some Muslims that the Koran contains scientific knowledge that was not discovered in the West until recently, and the belief in Koranic inimitability (Ijaz al Koran), and analyzes the psychology of Muslims who make irrational claims and profess irrational beliefs.
Solomon Schimmel
- Published in print:
- 2008
- Published Online:
- September 2008
- ISBN:
- 9780195188264
- eISBN:
- 9780199870509
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780195188264.003.0007
- Subject:
- Religion, Philosophy of Religion
This concluding chapter points out some of the negative consequences of scriptural fundamentalisms such as homophobia, gender inequality; religious intolerance; self‐righteousness; intellectual ...
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This concluding chapter points out some of the negative consequences of scriptural fundamentalisms such as homophobia, gender inequality; religious intolerance; self‐righteousness; intellectual dishonesty; deprivation of children from important scientific knowledge, and in some cases, advocacy of violence against ‘non‐believers.’ It also discusses positive aspects of fundamentalist communities, and their legitimate criticism of and disdain for certain vapid or decadent aspects of American and Western culture, values, and behaviors. The chapter discusses the ethics of undermining the religious beliefs of scriptural fundamentalists. When, why, and where is it appropriate or even obligatory to attempt to do so, and when is it wrong to do so? It concludes that there are times when combating fundamentalism and defending freedom of speech and of thought is essential for the good and welfare of American society and notes his intention to develop a detailed plan for how to ‘defundamentalize fundamentalists.’Less
This concluding chapter points out some of the negative consequences of scriptural fundamentalisms such as homophobia, gender inequality; religious intolerance; self‐righteousness; intellectual dishonesty; deprivation of children from important scientific knowledge, and in some cases, advocacy of violence against ‘non‐believers.’ It also discusses positive aspects of fundamentalist communities, and their legitimate criticism of and disdain for certain vapid or decadent aspects of American and Western culture, values, and behaviors. The chapter discusses the ethics of undermining the religious beliefs of scriptural fundamentalists. When, why, and where is it appropriate or even obligatory to attempt to do so, and when is it wrong to do so? It concludes that there are times when combating fundamentalism and defending freedom of speech and of thought is essential for the good and welfare of American society and notes his intention to develop a detailed plan for how to ‘defundamentalize fundamentalists.’
David M. Terman
- Published in print:
- 2010
- Published Online:
- May 2010
- ISBN:
- 9780195379655
- eISBN:
- 9780199777334
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780195379655.003.0002
- Subject:
- Religion, Religion and Society
This chapter situates the fundamentalist mindset in a group psychological context. A review of the psychoanalytic theory of groups shows some conflation between the psychology of the individual and ...
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This chapter situates the fundamentalist mindset in a group psychological context. A review of the psychoanalytic theory of groups shows some conflation between the psychology of the individual and that of the group. Several trends in research are evident. The group's history, values, and goals are central to the group's concerns, and threats to these elements — experienced by the group as assaults on its self-esteem — are increasingly cited as the source of violence. The history of the theory of paranoia shows the same direction: there is more recognition of the problems of fragile self-esteem, shame, and humiliation in the genesis of the paranoid structure. Intrinsic to the structure is dualistic thinking and the Manichaean view of the world. Work on violence in groups shows analogous psychological organization: great investment in the ideology of the group that contains its goals, values, and sense of group self-esteem. An injury to those goals and values produces a paranoid organization and an analogy to rage in the individual, and subsequent violence.Less
This chapter situates the fundamentalist mindset in a group psychological context. A review of the psychoanalytic theory of groups shows some conflation between the psychology of the individual and that of the group. Several trends in research are evident. The group's history, values, and goals are central to the group's concerns, and threats to these elements — experienced by the group as assaults on its self-esteem — are increasingly cited as the source of violence. The history of the theory of paranoia shows the same direction: there is more recognition of the problems of fragile self-esteem, shame, and humiliation in the genesis of the paranoid structure. Intrinsic to the structure is dualistic thinking and the Manichaean view of the world. Work on violence in groups shows analogous psychological organization: great investment in the ideology of the group that contains its goals, values, and sense of group self-esteem. An injury to those goals and values produces a paranoid organization and an analogy to rage in the individual, and subsequent violence.
Charles B. Strozier and Katharine Boyd
- Published in print:
- 2010
- Published Online:
- May 2010
- ISBN:
- 9780195379655
- eISBN:
- 9780199777334
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780195379655.003.0003
- Subject:
- Religion, Religion and Society
This chapter shows that the apocalyptic provides a specific narrative with historical continuity. That narrative may also include a group ideology, particularly one that is paranoid. The apocalyptic ...
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This chapter shows that the apocalyptic provides a specific narrative with historical continuity. That narrative may also include a group ideology, particularly one that is paranoid. The apocalyptic indulges in dualistic thinking, violent images and a desire for the end of the world, a discourse wherein one's paranoia and rage are explained, justified and given direction. The apocalyptic provides fertile soil for the violent potentials in the fundamentalist mindset.Less
This chapter shows that the apocalyptic provides a specific narrative with historical continuity. That narrative may also include a group ideology, particularly one that is paranoid. The apocalyptic indulges in dualistic thinking, violent images and a desire for the end of the world, a discourse wherein one's paranoia and rage are explained, justified and given direction. The apocalyptic provides fertile soil for the violent potentials in the fundamentalist mindset.
Charles B. Strozier, Katharine Boyd, and James W. Jones
- Published in print:
- 2010
- Published Online:
- May 2010
- ISBN:
- 9780195379655
- eISBN:
- 9780199777334
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780195379655.003.0004
- Subject:
- Religion, Religion and Society
This chapter begins with a discussion of the relationship between the charismatic leader and the members of the group, which emboldens both parties' conviction and reaffirms each individual's sense ...
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This chapter begins with a discussion of the relationship between the charismatic leader and the members of the group, which emboldens both parties' conviction and reaffirms each individual's sense of group self. It suggests that there may be a nearly universal experience of a certain form of totalized conversion that is a precondition for the easy adoption of paranoid and apocalyptic ideologies. There does appear to be a suggestive link between the way some who later turn to violence in the name of religion first turn to God with a passion and enthusiasm that hides darker and more malevolent inclinations.Less
This chapter begins with a discussion of the relationship between the charismatic leader and the members of the group, which emboldens both parties' conviction and reaffirms each individual's sense of group self. It suggests that there may be a nearly universal experience of a certain form of totalized conversion that is a precondition for the easy adoption of paranoid and apocalyptic ideologies. There does appear to be a suggestive link between the way some who later turn to violence in the name of religion first turn to God with a passion and enthusiasm that hides darker and more malevolent inclinations.
