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SOCIAL SCIENCE RESEARCH COUNCIL / AFTER SEPT. 11
Teaching Guide for "Fundamentalism(s)" Essays
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III. Questions for the Essays from "Fundamentalism(s)"
Access ideas for lessons and assignments using these
questions by clicking here.
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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?
- 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?
- 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.
- 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?
- 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?
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