Extremism facts for kids
Sometimes, people have very strong ideas or political views that are quite different from what most people think. These ideas are often called extremist. They are usually far from the common way of thinking or acting in a society.
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What is Extremism?
Extremist ideas are beliefs that are very different from the usual or generally accepted ones. They often go against common moral standards or what a society considers fair and right. For example, if a group wants to get rid of a democracy (where people vote for their leaders) and replace it with a totalitarian government (where one person or group has all the power and controls everything), their ideas would usually be seen as extremist.
Why Are Some Ideas Called Extremist?
Ideas are often called extremist when they challenge the basic rules or values of a society. This can include political or religious fundamentalism, which means sticking very strictly to old rules or beliefs. It can also involve fanaticism, which is when someone is extremely enthusiastic or devoted to an idea, sometimes in an unhealthy way.
How Views on Extremism Can Differ
What is considered extremist can change a lot depending on where you are in the world. For example, in France, some people might see it as extremist if someone believes that Muslim women should always wear a burqa (a full-body covering). But in countries like Afghanistan or Saudi Arabia, this opinion might not be seen as extremist at all. This shows that what is "extreme" depends on the culture and laws of a place.