Religious Fundamentalism

US Religious Fundamentalism: A Deep-Rooted Problem

Following the events of 9/11, the narrative presented was that extremism was a foreign issue, separate from American values of freedom and democracy. However, the author contends that extremism is a domestic problem, fueled by those in power who wield faith as authority. This type of extremism manifests in wealthy, privileged individuals who shape policy and claim divine sanction for their actions, like invoking scripture to dictate borders and justify violence. Ultimately, the author argues that this fundamentalism, whether Christian nationalism or Zionism, is about power and oppression disguised as divine order, which necessitates a recognition of the domestic sources of this dangerous ideology.

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Bernie Sanders says Israel is ‘becoming a religious fundamentalist country’

Israel ‘becoming a religious fundamentalist country’? The statement by Bernie Sanders certainly raises eyebrows and sparks debate. Is Israel truly on the path to becoming a religious state? As someone who has closely followed the developments in the region, I have my own thoughts on the matter.

Judaism has always been more than just a religion—it’s a nationality, a culture. Many Jews in Israel identify as secular, not adhering to strict religious practices but still deeply connected to their Jewish heritage. The idea that Israel is ‘becoming’ a religious fundamentalist country misses the mark. The country has always had a diverse population, with nearly half of Israeli Jews identifying as secular.… Continue reading