‘The Resurgence of Fundamentalism’ -Jade Houghton

Aldridge’s article expresses the notion of fundamentalism resurfacing within current day communities. Traditionally linked with Christianity, Aldridge defines tradition fundamentalism as a formal belief system whereby all truths come from the bible. All events, including miracles and resurrections that occurred within the bible are true and are accurate accounts of history. Of course fundamentalism is not just segregated to Christianity. Within Islamic faith the practice of wearing the Hijab is depicted as a fundamentalist practice. As is their objective to not only defend Muslim identity but to expand it globally. Judaism, explained by Aldridge, shows a direct pull toward teshuvah, or Jewish law. There is a huge relationship between Jewish fundamentalism and the history of Judaism.
Overall the article promotes the ideology that one cannot label fundamentalism as it differs across religious variants. Due to conflicting times, economic crisis, technology and globalisation Aldridge’s alerts us to the fact that conservative practices are making resurgences. There is a great pull to return to what once was, a social order found either within the bible, Quran, or Jewish Holy Scriptures. The revival in fundamentalism offers many a direction within life that they can longer find elsewhere. The overriding problem however comes back to the fact that within fundamentalism inner sphere of religion are built. Therefore as a result the practice of fundamentalism has gained a misunderstood label within western society, for being bigotry, ignorant, and practising fanaticism. Acceptance and diversity become rare and violence is associated. Aldridge’s article allows one to identify the mixed meanings of fundamentalism from religion to religion, whilst exposing the problematic effects it has upon a broader world. ‘The Resurgence of Fundamentalism’ successfully addresses the spheres of fundamentalism and the increasing reasons why it exists in our increasingly problematic world.