Ideology and
Radicalization
The use of the term radical has various
contexts within language. Radical may mean to relate to something in its
origin, such as its usage in reference to plants and in biology. The word is
also used in reference to language. A fundamental component of a linguistic
root may be an example of this. And, there are also radical roots in
mathematics. In modern—day use, the term is used in in
reference to ideology and sociology to mean a considerable departure from the
fundamental components representative of a concept. Here, the term means
leaving the usual or traditional for the extreme. This departure from the
traditional, which is representative of radical, is the advocacy of extreme
views, measures, and change.
Radical ideology emerges from risky
thinking. The process of radicalization happens by way of risky thinking. This type of thinking births within violent musings and extremist
interactions which relate to politics, religion, and social—cultural ideology.
Violence and terrorism are often the consequence and result of a radical and
extreme ideology. Research shows that the most concerning factors in being part
of the process of radicalization and violent extremism are political
discontent, alienation, and humiliation. The method to solve the problem of radical
ideology and address the root causes is through education and reform. This
begins by knowing the various forms of social injustice. The aim of deradicalization is also reform
and reproach of religious, historical, and other forms of ideological ignorance.
Ethical counsellors, educators, and other
social—cultural leaders are needed to guide individuals from going astray.
***This
information has been adapted from various sources which include the Merriam-Webster’s
dictionary, Encyclopedia Britannica, and my own analysis and commentary of the
information.
Schrnid,Alex P.,
International Center for Counter Terrorism, In research compiled for the EU and
UN, he mentions that among many things, political discontent, alienation, and
humiliation are part of the process of radicalization and violent extremism. He
states that individuals may also be motivated to terrorize by a desire for
revenge against acts of repression.
“Ibid, The research mentions de-radicalization methods
as being dialogue, counseling, and reintegration.