Fundamentalism - Definition, Etymology, and Historical Context
Definition: Fundamentalism refers to a movement within a religion that seeks to return to its perceived fundamental principles and ideals. It typically involves an assertion of these principles in an absolutist and literal manner. Within Christianity, the term originated in the early-twentieth-century American Protestant context, advocating for a return to what adherents deemed the “fundamentals” of the faith, rejecting modernist criticism and secular influences.
In the Islamic context, fundamentalism encompasses revivalist movements that reject Western methods, instead asserting the comprehensive and entrenched effectiveness of the Islamic message. These movements often strive for a return to orthodoxy and purity, in opposition to perceived contamination by external ideologies.
Etymology: The term “fundamentalism” derives from the late Latin “fundamentum”, meaning foundation or basis, combined with the English suffix ”-ism”, indicating a distinctive practice or philosophy. The rise of the term is closely associated with the publication of “The Fundamentals” in the early 20th century, a series of booklets that argued for the essential truths of Christianity in response to modernist and liberal theological trends.
Background: Fundamentalism, as a religious phenomenon, finds its roots in various religious traditions but exhibits common characteristics:
- Literal interpretation of sacred texts
- Rejection of modern, secular interpretations
- Emphasis on traditional values and practices
Within Protestant Christianity, fundamentalists historically opposed theological liberalism, secularism, and humanism. In the Muslim world, fundamentalist movements aim to uphold Sharia and reject Westernization, often positioning themselves against secularism and nationalism.
📜 Historical Facts & Dates
Christian Fundamentalism
- 1910-1915: Publication of “The Fundamentals: A Testimony to the Truth” in the United States, marking the formal start of the term’s usage.
- 1920s: The Scopes “Monkey” Trial in 1925 exemplified the clash between fundamentalism and modernist thought on the topic of evolution versus creationism.
Islamic Fundamentalism
- 19th-20th Centuries: Various revivalist movements, such as those led by Muhammad ibn Abd al-Wahhab in the Arabian Peninsula in the 18th century, which predated, yet influenced, modern fundamentalist thought.
- 1979: The Iranian Revolution led by Ayatollah Khomeini epitomized the effects and aims of Islamic fundamentalist ideology.
🌍 Cultural Differences and Similarities
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Christian Fundamentals:
- America: Fundamentalism arose as a counter to liberal theology and secularism, emphasizing biblical literalism and evangelical zeal.
- Europe: Similar movements existed, albeit with less intensity and organization compared to the American context.
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Islamic Fundamentals:
- Middle East & South Asia: Fundamentalist movements focus on returning to what is perceived as original Islamic principles, inherently requiring rejection of Western and colonial influences.
- Indonesia and Malaysia: Strong fundamentalist currents exist but often blend with local cultural and political factors, producing unique expressions of the movement.
Despite differing contexts and histories, both Christian and Islamic fundamentalists strive for doctrinal purity and resist modern interpretive influences.
Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms:
- Christianity: Evangelicalism (context-specific), Scripturalism
- Islam: Revivalism, Salafism (context-specific)
Antonyms:
- Modernism, Progressivism, Liberalism
Related Terms with Definitions
- Literalism: The interpretation of texts in their most basic or literal sense, without allowance for metaphor or allegory.
- Secularism: A principle that advocates separation between government institutions and religious institutions.
- Evangelicalism: A Protestant movement emphasizing the authority of the Bible, personal faith in Jesus Christ, and the importance of preaching over ritual.
✨ Exciting Facts
- Scopes Trial: The 1925 trial, also known as the “Scopes Monkey Trial,” in Tennessee, pitted scientific explanation of evolution against fundamentalist claims of creationism.
- Durability: Islamic fundamentalism has often argued for the unchanging nature of Sharia, asserting that it is timeless and universally applicable despite external influences.
📖 Quotations from Notable Writers
- Martin Marty: “Fundamentalism is militant anti-modernism” - This encapsulates the defensive and reactionary stance of fundamentalist movements.
- Karen Armstrong: “Fundamentalism is not a throwback to some pre-Modern faith. Rather, it is modern in the fact that it is an answer to the modern.”
📚 Suggested Literature and Sources for Further Study:
- “The Fundamentalism Project” by Martin E. Marty and R. Scott Appleby (A comprehensive collection of essays and studies on fundamentalism across the world)
- “Islamic Revival and Other Expert Insights” by John L. Esposito (Examines modern movements within Islam)
- “Karen Armstrong’s A History of God” (Provides a deeper historical context for understanding religious developments and trends, including fundamentalism)
Farewell Thought
In understanding fundamentalism, we are invited to contemplate the intricate relationship between belief and the modern world. Whether in Christianity or Islam, these movements reflect a profound desire to cling to perceived evergreen truths amidst rapidly changing cultural landscapes.
Warm Regards, Prof. Zaynab Al-Haqqani
