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ideologies

Islamic Fundamentalism

Establishing a society governed by strict adherence to Islamic principles and laws, ultimately creating a unified and morally upright community.

Overview Issues Discuss

About

  • Islamic Fundamentalism is a political ideology that seeks to return to the foundational principles and practices of Islam, as interpreted by its adherents. It is characterized by a strict adherence to the Quran and the Hadiths (sayings and actions of the Prophet Muhammad), and a belief in the implementation of Sharia law. Islamic Fundamentalists often reject modern interpretations of Islam and secular influences, viewing them as corrupting forces. They believe that the solution to the problems facing Muslim societies lies in a return to the fundamentals of the faith.

    The roots of Islamic Fundamentalism can be traced back to the 18th century with the emergence of the Wahhabi movement in Saudi Arabia. This movement, led by Muhammad ibn Abd al-Wahhab, sought to purify Islam by returning to what they believed were its original principles. They rejected any innovations or interpretations that had emerged after the third century of the Muslim era.

    In the 20th century, Islamic Fundamentalism gained momentum in response to the rapid modernization and westernization of Muslim-majority countries. The Muslim Brotherhood, founded in Egypt in 1928, is often considered the first modern Islamic Fundamentalist organization. The group advocated for a return to Islamic law and the rejection of Western influence.

    The Iranian Revolution of 1979 marked a significant turning point for Islamic Fundamentalism. The revolution, which resulted in the establishment of an Islamic Republic, was seen by many fundamentalists as a model for achieving their goals. It demonstrated that a modern state could be governed according to Islamic law.

    In recent decades, Islamic Fundamentalism has been associated with various militant and terrorist groups, such as Al-Qaeda and ISIS. These groups, however, represent a radical and violent interpretation of the ideology. It's important to note that not all Islamic Fundamentalists support or engage in violence. Many simply advocate for a more conservative interpretation of Islam and its role in society.

    Islamic Fundamentalism, like any political ideology, is not monolithic. It varies greatly in its interpretation and application across different regions and cultures. While some fundamentalists may seek to impose their beliefs through force, others advocate for peaceful change through education and political activism. Despite its diverse manifestations, the central tenet of Islamic Fundamentalism remains the same: a return to the foundational principles of Islam.

Opposing ideologies

These ideologies are least similar to Islamic Fundamentalism.

Anarcho-Communism

A society where all property is communally owned, decisions are made collectively, and no government or hierarchical structures exist.

LGBT Adoption RightsWomen in CombatDrug PolicyDeath PenaltyMandatory Military Service

Anarcho-Capitalism

Achieving a society where individual freedom is maximized through the elimination of government intervention and the promotion of voluntary exchanges within a free market system.

LGBT Adoption RightsDrug PolicyMandatory Military ServiceMarijuanaWelfare

Social Justice Advocate

You believe deeply rooted systems of oppression require bold, structural change — not just individual attitude shifts.

LGBT Adoption RightsWomen in CombatDrug PolicyDeath PenaltyMarijuana

Socialist

You believe major industries and resources should be owned or controlled democratically to serve the common good, not private profit.

LGBT Adoption RightsMarijuanaTransgender AthletesWomen in CombatDrug Policy

Structural Reformer

You believe addressing poverty, racism, and inequality at the structural level is the only way to create lasting change.

LGBT Adoption RightsWomen in CombatDrug PolicyMarijuanaTransgender Athletes

Equity Advocate

You believe society must actively correct for historical and structural disadvantages so that outcomes become more equal.

LGBT Adoption RightsWomen in CombatDrug PolicyMarijuanaTransgender Athletes

How similar are your political beliefs to Islamic Fundamentalism issues? Take the political quiz to find out.