SOME FUNDAMENTAL PROBLEMS WITH FUNDAMENTALISM: A LUTHERAN PERSPECTIVE

Abstract

When the word fundamentalism appears in any form of written, oral, or visual media, it generally evokes negative reactions. Often associated with fanaticism, fundamentalism is known for religious commitment taken to its extreme. It is frequently stated that fundamentalists are people who resort to violence and who simply cannot appeal to reason or democratic ideas. This is an oversimplification. It is also wrongly assumed that fundamentalism is found solely in other religions, not Christianity. Fundamentalism and fundamentalist tendencies – although nuanced – are alive and thriving in Christianity as well.