18.1 What is Extremism?

Extremism refers to beliefs, ideologies, or actions that exist far outside the accepted norms of a society, often characterized by rigid thinking, intolerance of opposing views, and a willingness to use extreme measures—including violence, kidnapping, torture, and terrorism—to achieve ideological, political, or religious goals.

Extremist ideologies are frequently characterized by a rigid “us vs. them” worldview, in which an in-group is viewed as superior and out-groups are stripped of dignity, rights, or even basic humanity. This dehumanization helps the in-group justify coercion and violence.

In the context of religion, extremism typically involves selective interpretation. Certain religious texts or ideas are emphasized while others are ignored, and these interpretations are often shaped as much by political, social, and historical conditions as by theology. For example, while mainstream Islamic teachings include a broad understanding of jihad as both spiritual and physical struggle, extremist groups often reduce it to only violent warfare against perceived enemies.

Extremism is not unique to Islam. Throughout history, extremist movements have emerged within many religious, political, and ideological systems. What distinguishes extremist groups is not simply what they believe, but how those beliefs are applied, especially when they are used to justify coercion, violence, and domination.

Thus, it is important to distinguish between religion itself and extremist movements that claim to act in its name. In Islam, as in other major world religions, there is a wide diversity of beliefs, practices, and interpretations. Extremist groups represent specific ideological and political positions, not the totality of the religion.

In this module, we will examine extremist groups that act in the name of Islam.

In section 18.2, we will look at the types of Islamist extremism.