What’s the Issue? Modernity, Reaction, and Self

Abstract

The author’s perspective is outlined in the first chapter, to enable readers to understand where I am coming from and evaluate the book accordingly. My perspective is a specific classic theory from social psychology—social identity theory. This is chosen because it gives a clear explanation of how populism and fundamentalism work psychologically. However, it is used in the context of the series of ever more inclusive social systems of which it is a part: social psychology, the social sciences, science and academia, and ultimately the global social system itself. This context implies beliefs and values, all of which should be honoured in the account provided, including, at the inclusive extreme, respect for humankind. My own experience within the religious and political as well as the academic systems is outlined.