Fundamentalism Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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fundamentalism
[หfสndษหmษnt(ษ)lษชz(ษ)m ]
Definitions
religious belief
Fundamentalism is a strict adherence to certain fundamental religious doctrines, often accompanied by a literal interpretation of sacred texts.
Synonyms
conservatism, orthodoxy, traditionalism.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| fundamentalism |
Used when talking about strict adherence to basic principles, often in religion. It usually has a negative connotation, indicating rigidity.
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| orthodoxy |
Describes adherence to accepted or traditional beliefs, especially in religion or politics. It can be neutral or negative, depending on context.
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| conservatism |
Refers to the preference for traditional values and institutions, resistant to change. It is often used in political and social contexts.
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| traditionalism |
Involves maintaining and valuing traditions and conventional practices, often seen in cultural or societal contexts.
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Examples of usage
- His fundamentalism led him to reject modern scientific theories.
- She was raised in a household that valued fundamentalism above all else.
political belief
Fundamentalism can also refer to a strict adherence to basic political principles, often with a resistance to change or compromise.
Synonyms
dogmatism, extremism, rigidity.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| fundamentalism |
Use this word when describing strict adherence to basic principles, often in religious or ideological contexts. It suggests a return to foundational beliefs.
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| extremism |
This term is used to describe radical or extreme behavior and beliefs, often associated with politics or religion. It typically has a negative connotation.
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| rigidity |
Use this word when describing stiffness or lack of flexibility, which can apply to physical objects, rules, or attitudes. It can imply a negative sense of inflexibility.
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| dogmatism |
This word is appropriate when discussing rigid and inflexible belief in specific doctrines or opinions. Often, it is used in a negative context to criticize closed-mindedness.
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Examples of usage
- The party's fundamentalism made it difficult for them to reach bipartisan agreements.
- His fundamentalism on the issue of taxation alienated many potential supporters.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Historical Context
- Fundamentalism gained traction during the 1920s in the United States in response to modernism and secularism.
- The Scopes Trial in 1925 highlighted the conflict between fundamentalist beliefs and evolving scientific understandings, particularly regarding evolution.
- It has also formed in various forms across different religions, including Islamic fundamentalism or Hindu nationalism.
Cultural Impact
- Fundamentalism influences various forms of art, literature, and media, often leading to debates about freedom of expression.
- It can lead to social movements, both politically conservative and progressive, depending on the context.
- In some cultures, fundamentalist groups can shape policies, impacting education and legislation.
Psychological Perspective
- Psychologists suggest that fundamentalist beliefs can provide individuals with a strong sense of identity and community.
- Such beliefs may arise from a desire for certainty in an uncertain world, mitigating feelings of anxiety and confusion.
- Research indicates that fundamentalism is sometimes associated with a cognitive style that favors black-and-white thinking.
Global Perspective
- Fundamentalist movements exist worldwide, from Christianity in the Western world to various interpretations within Islam and Buddhism.
- In many regions, fundamentalism can lead to conflicts, as differing belief systems clash over values and practices.
- Globalization has intertwined with fundamentalist movements, sometimes leading to a resurgence in local traditional beliefs as a reaction to modern influences.
Origin of 'fundamentalism'
Main points about word origin
- The term 'fundamentalism' emerged in the early 20th century, originally referring to a movement within American Protestantism.
- It derives from the word 'fundamental,' which means the basic and most important part of something.
- The first official use of the term was connected to a series of books called 'The Fundamentals' published between 1910 and 1915.
The term 'fundamentalism' originated in the early 20th century within Protestant Christianity to describe a movement that emphasized the 'fundamentals' of the faith. Over time, the term has been applied to various religious and political movements that prioritize strict adherence to core beliefs. The concept of fundamentalism has been a topic of debate and analysis in academic and religious circles.