äärmuslikkus

Extremism, or äärmuslikkus in Finnish, refers to holding extreme political or religious views. It is characterized by a rejection of mainstream political or social norms and a willingness to employ radical methods to achieve ideological goals. Extremist ideologies often present a polarized worldview, dividing society into absolute 'us' and 'them' categories, and frequently advocate for intolerance towards opposing viewpoints.

The term can encompass a wide spectrum of beliefs, from far-right nationalism and white supremacy to radical religious fundamentalism and certain forms of anarchism or communism. While the specific tenets vary greatly, a common thread is the belief that existing systems are fundamentally flawed and require drastic, often disruptive, change. This can manifest in actions ranging from hate speech and incitement to violence, terrorism, and the promotion of a totalitarian or revolutionary agenda.

Distinguishing between strong political conviction and extremism is crucial. Extremism typically crosses a line when it advocates for or engages in illegal activities, promotes hatred, or denies the fundamental rights and freedoms of others. Understanding the underlying causes, such as social, economic, or political grievances, is important for addressing and countering extremist movements. Societies often employ a range of strategies, including legal measures, counter-narrative campaigns, and efforts to promote social inclusion, to mitigate the risks associated with extremism.