Fundamentalism

Fundamentalism is typically associated with theology, implying unwavering devotion to a set of beliefs. On the other hand, fundamentalism has come to refer to a tendency among certain groups – primarily, but not exclusively, in religion – that is portrayed by a uniquely extreme literalism as applied to particular sacred texts, doctrines, or philosophies. A feeling of the significance of keeping up within-group and out-group differentiation, prompting an emphasis on purity and the urge to get back to this tendency regularly, brings about a rejection of various perspectives and opinions regarding these established “fundamentals” and their acknowledged understanding inside the group.

Depending upon the unique factors, the term fundamentalism can be overly critical rather than a fair characterisation, such as referring to political points of view as right-wing or left-wing can be considered offensive. 

India’s Fundamentalism

India has a population of over 1.3 billion people. This indicates how quickly the country has grown since independence, in terms of population and global influence. Rural infrastructure is outdated or non-existent, democracy does not always function as well as it should, and poverty is a major issue. On the other hand, fundamentalism has been one of the most significant issues that India has faced since its independence.

Fundamentalism and Modernisation

These are three ways that fundamentalism, with regard to religion, has been undermined as a result of modernisation:

1. Social and religious life has become separated (connected to the course of separation).
2. People who justify their nature and behaviour are bound to look for logical and scientific clarifications for their activities rather than religious clarifications.
3. Steve Bruce, the Professor of Sociology at the University of Aberdeen argues that in certain social orders, religious traditionalists accept their lifestyle is in danger, and accordingly, find ways to shield their customs from the destructive impact of modernisation.

According to Bruce, the following factors make fundamentalism more likely to emerge:

1. There is ideological cohesion – for example, around a single deity and sacred text. 
2. When there is a common enemy against which to unite. 
3. There is a lack of centralised control. 
4. The existence of underestimated individuals confronting oppression. Fundamentalism requires initiates, and assuming a fundamentalist gathering arises with claims that it can give a superior life to individuals on the off chance that they follow the confidence, it is bound to develop.
5. Bruce proceeds to argue that the idea of fundamentalism is moulded by how political foundations treat fundamentalist developments.

Elements of Fundamentalism

1. Fundamentalism weighs on the faultlessness of a sacred or religious text in all matters of religion and teaching. Second, fundamentalists affirm that everyday issues must be administered by the valid, uncovered religion as exemplified in the first texts.
2. It is against reason and logic, humanism, and secularism.
3. According to Professor T.N. Madan, fundamentalist developments are of an aggregate person. They are frequently driven by alluring pioneers, who are generally men.

Clarifying the Appeal of Fundamentalism

Marketing

Fundamentalist gatherings have been highly influential in making ancient faith applicable in modern society. One component that stands apart here is the utilisation of mechanisation.

Totalism

Fundamentalist groups have been exceptionally fruitful in maintaining belief in everyday issues, not simply occasional worship. 

Grassroots Involvement

Fundamentalist gatherings are communal and non-elitist, with a ‘do it without anyone else’s help’ ethos. These gatherings frequently have a ‘flattened hierarchy’ where the dynamic contribution is energised, and personal healing is sought after.

Certainty in a World of Choice

Fundamentalist gatherings appeal to the people who look for an ethical anchor in a universe of limitless decisions (a postmodern world).

Cultural Defence

Social defence is where religion joins a local area against external danger. Religion in such circumstances offers support and a feeling of social personality in an unpredictable or antagonistic climate. Protecting a local area against a threat frequently gives religion a noticeable job in judicial issues.

Conclusion

Fundamentalism, meaning strict devotion to a set of beliefs, can arise out of any views or beliefs that are held by people. While most forms of fundamentalism involve devotion to a particular religion or religious establishment, fundamentalism can include political, economic or the many types of rapidly changing social belief systems. Depending upon the unique factors, the term fundamentalism can be overly critical rather than a fair characterisation, such as the reference to political or social points of view.