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1. According to Robert Hefner, the decisive battle is taking place within Muslim society, rather than between the West and Islamic civilizations. What is it that those who are resorting to terrorism are struggling against? How can the West address this struggle? Do you agree that these suggested measures will positively influence the outcome of this struggle? Is it the West’s obligation to involve itself in this way? Why or why not?

2. Refer to Olivier Roy's essay to describe the characteristics of the neo-fundamentalist movement. How is this movement similar to and different from other fundamentalist Islamic movements?

3. Based on your reading of Robert Hefner's and Olivier Roy's essays, write a paper discussing the struggle taking place among Muslims about Islam in today's world. Include in this discussion descriptions of some of the most visible groups taking part in the struggle, their perspectives on the relationship between religion and politics, and their political tactics to attract followers. Address also the extent to which these different groups identify themselves in terms of the nations in which they are based.

4. Wang Gungwu discusses secularism in his essay in this section. Define secularism based on his use of this word and additional reading. Using this definition and the definition of fundamentalism offered in the teaching guide for this subject area, explain what Wang means when he refers to fundamentalists among secularists. Explain, also, how is it possible to be religious and secular at the same time?

5. Analyze the following quote based on what you have learned from all three essays in this section:

   . . . an adequate understanding of fundamentalism requires us to acknowledge its potential in every movement or cause . . . . We are all of us, to some degree and in some senses, fundamentalists.

   B. Lionel Caplan, Studies in Religious Fundamentalism

   Giving examples from the essays, determine whether each author would agree or disagree. With whom do you agree?