**Introduction**
Extremism has become one of the most serious issues confronting contemporary societies due to its negative impact on security, stability, and peaceful coexistence. It does not merely threaten specific individuals; rather, it undermines fundamental human values and weakens the foundations of a balanced and cohesive society.
**First: The Concept of Extremism**
Extremism refers to exceeding the limits of moderation in thought, behavior, or attitudes. It involves rejecting opposing viewpoints, claiming possession of absolute truth, and, at times, resorting to exclusion or violence to impose certain ideas.
**Second: Types of Extremism**
**1. Intellectual Extremism**
* Rigidity and inflexibility in ideas and beliefs
* Rejection of dialogue and pluralism
* Declaring others disbelievers or traitors
**2. Religious Extremism**
* Misinterpretation of religious texts
* Excessiveness and fanaticism in the name of religion
* Exploiting religion to justify violence
**3. Political Extremism**
* Blind allegiance to an ideology or political party
* Refusal of peaceful participation
* Attempting to impose views through force
**4. Social Extremism**
* Tribal or ethnic fanaticism
* Discrimination among individuals
* Rejection of cultural diversity
**5. Violent Extremism (Terrorism)**
* The use of violence to achieve ideological or political objectives
* Threatening the security of individuals and communities
**Third: Causes of Extremism**
**1. Intellectual and Religious Causes**
* Ignorance and lack of awareness
* Absence of proper religious understanding
* Influence of radical discourse
**2. Social Causes**
* Family disintegration
* Absence of positive role models
* Feelings of marginalization
**3. Economic Causes**
* Poverty and unemployment
* Limited future opportunities
**4. Psychological Causes**
* Frustration
* Feelings of injustice or oppression
* The search for belonging and identity
**5. Media and Technological Causes**
* Misuse of social media platforms
* Spread of hate speech
* Ease of recruiting youth through the internet
**Conclusion**
Extremism is not an inevitable destiny; rather, it is the result of circumstances that can be addressed through the collective efforts of families, educational institutions, religious organizations, media outlets, and society as a whole. Through awareness, dialogue, justice, and moderation, a secure and cohesive society characterized by peace and coexistence can be established.