Islamic Fundamentalism

Definition

Islamic fundamentalism is a movement within Islam that seeks to return to what its followers perceive as the original principles and practices of the religion, emphasizing strict adherence to Islamic law (Sharia) and often opposing modern interpretations of Islam. This movement often arises in response to perceived threats from Western influence and seeks to create a society governed by Islamic values, impacting both cultural practices and political structures.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Islamic fundamentalism gained significant traction in the late 20th century as a response to globalization and the perceived moral decay caused by Western influence.
2. Fundamentalist movements can be found across various Islamic sects, including Sunni and Shia, each interpreting Islamic texts in ways that align with their specific beliefs.
3. Islamic fundamentalists often prioritize the implementation of Sharia law as a means of social and political reform within their societies.
4. The rise of Islamic fundamentalism has been associated with various political movements and groups that seek to establish governance based on Islamic principles, leading to conflicts in several regions.
5. Many governments in predominantly Muslim countries face challenges from fundamentalist groups advocating for stricter interpretations of Islam, leading to political instability and tension between secular and religious authorities.

Review Questions

• How does Islamic fundamentalism respond to modernity and Western influence?
  • Islamic fundamentalism often emerges as a reaction against modernity and Western cultural influence, which some followers view as corrupting traditional Islamic values. By advocating for a return to the original teachings and practices of Islam, these movements seek to counteract what they perceive as moral decay and social injustice fostered by globalization. This response can lead to a push for greater political power to implement Sharia law, aiming to create societies aligned with their understanding of true Islam.
• In what ways does Islamic fundamentalism impact governance in predominantly Muslim countries?
  • Islamic fundamentalism significantly impacts governance in predominantly Muslim countries by promoting political movements that call for the implementation of Sharia law. These movements challenge existing secular governments, often resulting in political instability and conflict. Additionally, as fundamentalist groups gain influence, they may reshape public policies, educational systems, and social norms to reflect their interpretation of Islam, which can further polarize societies between secularists and religious conservatives.
• Evaluate the implications of Islamic fundamentalism on global security dynamics in the contemporary world.
  • The rise of Islamic fundamentalism has profound implications for global security dynamics. As fundamentalist groups often resort to militant tactics or terrorism to achieve their goals, this creates security challenges for both regional governments and international actors. The ideologies propagated by these groups can lead to conflicts that spill over national borders, prompting military interventions or counter-terrorism efforts by other nations. Additionally, the tensions generated by these movements can exacerbate divisions within societies and contribute to broader geopolitical struggles, impacting international relations and stability.

Related terms

Sharia: Islamic law derived from the Quran and Hadith, governing all aspects of a Muslim's life, including daily routines, ethics, and legal matters.

Jihad: A term often associated with Islamic fundamentalism, referring to the struggle or effort in the path of God, which can manifest as both personal spiritual growth and collective action, including militant struggles.

Salafism:

A branch of Islamic fundamentalism that advocates a return to the practices of the earliest Muslims (the Salaf) and often emphasizes a literal interpretation of Islamic texts.