Religious Fundamentalism

Question 1

Resistant to change

Answer 1

• Changes in society are seen as a threat to their beliefs and way of life.
• Religious fundamentalists want to return to the past and go back to religious basics.

e.g. Westboro Baptist Church

Question 2

Detest modernity

Answer 2

• Fundamentalists believe that society has become polluted by modern ways.
• Modern changes go against god’s way.

e.g. sex before marriage, abortion rights and the legislation of homosexuality.

Question 3

Take a literal interpretation of religious texts

Answer 3

• Fundamentalists believe that what is written in their sacred texts is the truth and must not be challenged.
• There is no room for interpretation; they believe what is written word for word.

Question 4

Their religion is the only true religion

Answer 4

• Fundamentalists claim a monopoly of truth; their vision of the world is the only true one and everyone should believe it, all others are wrong.

Question 5

Example: Westboro Baptist Church

Answer 5

• Want to change American society back into a Christian society where everything everything is based upon the bible.