Fundamentalism

Book excerpt: What makes Fundamentalism different from other expressions of Christianity? In Fundamentalism, authors Fisher Humphreys and Philip Wise seek to answer such questions for non-Fundamentalists curious about this strain of American Christianity. The authors define Fundamentalism in the scope of Christian religion, including both its impulses as well as the movement as a whole, while drawing on the commonality among fundamentalists of all religions. Although they disagree with Fundamentalism, the authors hope to alleviate the automatic association of fundamentalism in general with radical violent minorities. By providing an informed understanding of Fundamentalism among contemporary Christians, the authors hope to provide critical insight for those considering joining the movement as well as to foster a healthy relationship with Fundamentalists in families, churches, and communities. While acknowledging many common beliefs and practices with Fundamentalism, even some of the most import