World Economic Forum
Extremism is increasing throughout the United States and Europe, with world leaders looking for ways to put it to an end.
Extremism seems to be on the rise, with a growing number of threats and attacks in the United States and Europe.
It has been an ongoing and complex challenge in the West, affecting many countries and millions of people.
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security primarily refers to extremism as domestic violent extremism (DVE), which has been identified as a significant and growing threat to national security, democracy and social cohesion.
This is included as ideologically motivated violence by individuals or groups within the country, often targeting government institutions, political figures or civilians.
The U.S. has seen an increase in domestic violent extremists committing terrorist attacks, with racially and ethnically motivated extremists being responsible for the most lethal acts. These ideologies have created larger social tensions and violent protests.
Europe has also faced extremism, particularly far-right extremist movements and violence.
Some groups have gained political footholds in several countries, with eight countries having hard-right parties in their governments or relying on nationalist parties for political support.
Extremism continues to gain influence, creating ongoing challenges for governments and their countries. The ideologies grow because of how they continually evolve by the use of multiple factors that creates these environments.
University of North Georgia political science Professor Carl Cavalli spoke about extremism.
“We’ve seen a rise in these divisions as we have lost our common basis for community. That is, more and more we are moving in our own ideological circles,” he said.
So, what are some ways that cause extremism to rise?
One possible answer is the use of the internet and online platforms.
The internet and online platforms can play a pivotal role in spreading extremist ideas and propaganda. By connecting with people, propaganda can influence users, allowing these groups to recruit people who are susceptible to these ideas.
The internet also allows these groups to coordinate with one another and easily access extremist content. Social media algorithms can be used to radicalize individuals and facilitate motives of violence.
“I think we are seeing a rise in extremist groups because we are seeing a rise in partisan divisions and political extremism generally. It’s a dangerous spiral. The splintering of media and popular culture mean we increasingly surround ourselves with self-selected culture and politics – which means we are less and less likely to understand those who disagree. We were much more united when we all got our information and entertainment from a limited number of sources that strived to appeal to a broad audience.” – Carl Cavalli, UNG Political Science Professor
Another way extremist ideologies are possibly forming is through political polarization.
Political polarization can create an environment of distrust, hostility and division. It can push people away from moderate views towards more radical positions. Social platforms allow radical views to be amplified, justifying political violence and conspiracies.
By increasing radical views, removing trust between opposing political parties/views and increasing tolerance for these ideas, it can create a hostile environment that threatens democracy.