extremism
ik-STREE-miz-um
/ɪkˈstriː.mɪ.zəm/
The holding of extreme political or religious views, often advocating radical measures.
Focuses on position far outside the mainstream, frequently associated with a willingness to use violent or subversive methods.
The story behind the word. Derived from Latin 'extremus', the superlative of 'ex' (out). The noun 'extremism' gained political prominence in the mid-20th century to describe ideologies operating far beyond the democratic consensus.
Word relationships
- radicalism: Focuses on sweeping reform from the roots up, whereas extremism emphasizes extreme position relative to a center.
- fanaticism: Refers more to intense psychological zeal than political positioning.
- moderation: Avoidance of excess or extremes in opinion or conduct.
- centrism: Adherence to middle-of-the-road political views.
Commonly confused with
- radicalism: Radicalism seeks root-and-branch reform; extremism defines distance from accepted norms, often with destructive intent.
Word family
- extremist (noun): A person who holds extreme views.
- extreme (adjective): Reaching a high or the highest degree; furthest from center.
Collocations
- violent extremism
- political extremism
- combating extremism
Example sentences
- "I would remind you that extremism in the defense of liberty is no vice." Public policy speech
- "Governments invest heavily in programs designed to counter violent extremism online." Security analysis
Memory hook
EXTREMISM takes ideas to the absolute EXTREME edges of the spectrum. Living on the ideological edge.
When not to use
Avoid using for simple eccentricities or uncommon hobbies; reserved for radical ideological stances.
Fun facts
- Aristotle's 'Golden Mean' philosophy identified virtue as the middle point between two extreme vices.
Explore more words
radicalize, fanaticism, bigotry, terrorism, separatism, exclusivism
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