Extremism: The New Norm?
In recent years, extremism has been making its way from the fringes to the mainstream of society, a shift that should not be taken lightly. What was once considered radical is now part of everyday conversations, policies, and politics, signaling a significant societal change. Here are ten reasons contributing to this alarming shift. The rise of entitlement and extreme boundaries are rapidly destroying institutions worldwide.
This movement is not limited to the ultra-rich nor the politically powerful but rather permeates the mainstream of society. This is evidenced by the rise of lies, distorted media, conspiracy theories, extreme relationships, and even daily driving on the roads. Road rage used to be an exception, but it seems more rampant today than ever. If no alternative can be found, we will likely end up with the dystopian society that sci-fi writers have written about for decades.
Below are some reasons I believe are driving these attitudes:
1. Polarization
Society is becoming increasingly polarized. The middle ground is shrinking as people gravitate towards more extreme positions in response to opposing views. This division is evident in political, social, religious, and cultural spheres, where compromise is seen as a weakness rather than a strength.
However, some argue that this polarization is a natural part of democratic discourse and can lead to more robust debates and better policy outcomes. This may be true in theory, but in reality, it is building walls that may never come down.
2. Social Media Amplification
Social media platforms play a significant role in the rise of extremism. Algorithms designed to maximize engagement often promote sensational and extreme content. This creates echo chambers where like-minded individuals reinforce each other’s views, leading to a more radicalized collective mindset. When accessing social media, it seems we put away our minds and pull out our biases to imprint the best and the worst of what is provided. This closed-minded state feeds the polarization mentioned above.
3. Economic Inequality
Economic disparities are growing worldwide, leading to frustration and disenfranchisement among many people. Those who feel left behind by the global economy are more susceptible to extremist ideologies that promise drastic solutions and scapegoat certain groups for their hardships. I have talked about this many times, and if the level of inequality continues without abandonment, the result may be a revolution of some type. The nature of this revolution is likely to be physical rather than logical or collaborative if there is no global change in attitudes.
4. Selfish Politics
As selfish politics become more prominent, groups assert their rights and viewpoints more aggressively. This can lead to a zero-sum game where one group’s gain is perceived as another’s loss, driving people towards extreme positions to protect their identities. Politics must be about balance, not extremism. We too often forget the idea of the “Common Good” as defined in the Constitution.
“What Do We Mean When We Talk about the Common Good”? This article from Lee Hamilton, Indiana University Center on Representative Government, explains the concept well.
5. Globalization Backlash
Globalization has brought cultural and economic changes that some perceive as threats to their traditional way of life. This backlash manifests in a desire to return to perceived “better” times, often expressed through nationalist and extremist ideologies. This combines with Selfish Politics to create a dominating wall that tries to crush challenges. However, it does nothing but isolate and create a nasty case of inbreeding for those inside.
6. Misinformation and Conspiracy Theories
The spread of misinformation and conspiracy theories online contributes significantly to the normalization of extremism. False information can create fear and mistrust, leading individuals to adopt radical beliefs as they seek answers outside mainstream narratives.
7. Populist Leadership
Populist leaders often exploit extremist sentiments to gain support, legitimizing radical ideologies. By presenting themselves as outsiders challenging the status quo, they attract followers who feel disenfranchised by traditional political systems.
8. Decline of Trust in Institutions
There is a growing distrust in traditional institutions like government, media, and academia. This erosion of trust drives people to seek alternative sources of information and authority, often found in extremist groups that promise clear, albeit radical, answers. I have talked about this many times, and more erosion continues.
9. Fear and Uncertainty
Events like economic crises, pandemics, and terrorism heighten fear and uncertainty. During such times, people are more likely to gravitate towards radical solutions that promise security and stability, even at the cost of democratic principles.
10. Sophisticated Extremist Networks
Extremist groups have become more sophisticated in their recruitment and propaganda efforts. They use advanced strategies to spread their messages and attract followers, often targeting vulnerable individuals and communities with tailored content.
Conclusion
The rise of extremism as a new norm creates a complex interplay of social, economic, and technological factors. However, it’s not a situation without hope. Addressing this trend requires a holistic approach that fosters dialogue, reduces inequality, combats misinformation, and rebuilds trust in institutions. By understanding and addressing these root causes, we can reverse the normalization of extremism and build a more inclusive and resilient society.
The answer lies not in trying to change the whole but rather in changing the attitudes of the parts of the whole and creating a wave of positive change. This is not a Utopian answer but rather a Protopian one that can be a seed that is planted and nurtured for future generations.
