EXAGGERATION LEADS TO EXAGGERATION

Abstract

Fundamentalism, in its original meaning in the Christian world, refers to adhering too closely to a literal interpretation of sacred texts. Of late fundamentalism has assumed a wider meaning: a fanatic loyalty to one’s own community invoking the scriptures or tenets of one’s tradition; refusal to listen to other points of view including proposals of modernity and science; hostility to other communities to the point of violence; attitudes that are exclusive, authoritarian and repressive. The present form of religious fundamentalism is partly a reaction to the radical and insensitive secularism that in some parts of the world made bold to mock faith-expressions in their own religion and in others. Things became more complicated when such reactions got mixed up with local tensions in different parts of the world, with historic memories, colonial wounds, ethnic strife, resource competition, and geo-political struggles. Respectful conversation between people who differ has become an urgent need today. What our age needs above all are bridge-builders, who, despite all difficulties, clashes and confrontations, are eager to search for areas of agreement in view of the common good. They should listen to these words of wisdom, “Your speech should always be pleasant and interesting, and you should know how to give the right answer to everyone” (Col 4:6).