Religions, Identities and the Rise of Extremism

A new essay argues that when people lose traditional faith, they often seek other strong beliefs. The writer believes that this search can lead to dangerous ideas. The piece cites studies showing that regular churchgoers are less likely to hold hateful or violent views. It also notes that religious people in prison are more likely to stay out of trouble after release. The author claims that many Americans who consider themselves “progressive” are actually less open to different ideas. He says their politics have become a kind of religion. The essay uses the story of a man who once shouted at a rally in Charlottesville, Virginia. He later joined Catholicism and says he has changed.The writer explains that this man grew up in a struggling family. He saw unfairness around him but did not know how to talk about it. He had no clear goals in college, which left space for extreme thoughts to grow. Later he began to hate people who were not like him. The essay says that after becoming Catholic, the man found a new sense of community based on love instead of hate. The writer also talks about another violent figure who had no family or church ties. He joined a hateful group to feel connected. The essay argues that when people lack a strong identity, they may turn to abstract ideas such as race or nationality. These invented identities can become more dangerous than smaller, real communities. The author concludes that many people today see religion as a positive force in society.