Summary
Highlights
Fundamentalists believe their religious texts (like the Bible) are authoritative and not open to interpretation. They consider these texts to be literal fact and the highest form of knowledge, even above scientific explanations, such as believing God created the world in seven days despite scientific theories like the Big Bang.
Fundamentalists foster a strict 'us and them' mentality, separating believers from non-believers. They are absolutely certain about their worldview and way of life, viewing others who don't adhere to their beliefs as incorrect and sometimes facing negative consequences like going to hell.
When their teachings or religious rights are challenged, fundamentalists often respond aggressively, sometimes resorting to intimidation or violence. An example given is Christian fundamentalists bombing abortion clinics and harming doctors, believing abortion is a sin and their religious teachings should dictate law.
Fundamentalists use modern technology, such as the internet, to spread their message, attract followers, and radicalize them. Paradoxically, they are also often opposed to modern technology, viewing it as a medium for spreading liberal values like sexual and relationship freedoms that challenge their traditional beliefs.
A significant feature of fundamentalism is patriarchy, where women are often oppressed and controlled. This control typically extends to their sexual and relationship freedoms, keeping them in traditional gender roles.
The key difference between fundamentalism and traditional religion is that fundamentalists seek to reshape all aspects of society (politics, economics, law) according to their religious texts. Unlike traditional religious followers who can tolerate differences between their beliefs and societal values, fundamentalists desire complete control of society based on their religious ideas. They also possess a 'siege mentality,' feeling constantly under threat and striving to return society to a more traditional way of life, opposing modernity.