Modernity, Nationalism and Religious Fundamentalism

Abstract

The two terms most commonly used to describe the various forms of religious activism evident around the world today are ‘religious fundamentalism’ and ‘religious nationalism’. Some might prefer to use just one of these as an all-inclusive ‘umbrella-word’.1 I am of the opinion that both are needed, each in its appropriate context; for each of these has connotations which the other does not; and, if the resurgence of religion, globally, is to be captured in its entirety, as far as possible, then both sets of the connotations need to be retained. I wish to start by talking about ‘fundamentalism’ first, postponing the consideration of ‘nationalism’ and ‘modernity’ for a little while.