Radicalization

[nailit]

Why is it that when talking about certain religious cults
(Branch Davidians, People Temple, Moonies etc) we talk about brainwashing or indoctrination. But when we talk about muslim based creeds we talk about 'radicalization'?

Is there a difference?
(because if there is, I fail to see it)

[grasscarp]

Yes. Difference is that what we currently call radicalisation is not some sinister manipulation, but a process by which people come to freely choose a dangerously and wickedly misguided path that they nonetheless perceive to be a virtuous calling.

[Peaspeculiars]

I see your interest Nailit, and to quote:
Radicalization (or radicalisation) is a process by which an individual or group comes to adopt increasingly extreme political, social, or religious ideals and aspirations that (1) reject or undermine the status quo or (2) reject and/or undermine contemporary ideas and expressions of freedom of choice.

The above definition of 'radicalisation' happens in both examples that you have given to a certain extent. However, as the definition points out in exert: 'adopt increasingly' - most of the cults you mention are stable and do not 'increase' in their religious views. Therefore cults are not often linked to the word 'radicalisation'. 'Radical' is a change, stable is non-change (or very little)

[Theland]

Raoical as in the doctrine alone, no more no less.
Radical Christianity could never be violent, as to be so would depart from the New Testament teachings.
Radical Islam encourages jihad by whatever means including violence. To reject jihad is to reject the basic tenets of Islam.
So called moderate Muslims have compromised their faith to live in peace. They are no longer radical imho.

[atalanta]

All religions, all cults and all sects depend on brainwashing and indoctrination. The religionists prefer to call this "schooling".
I say - leave all children's minds alone until they are 18, then offer dogmas and scriptures to unbrainwashed adult minds. Then see what happens to illogical "mystery"beliefs and contradictory pontifications.

[Peaspeculiars]

That's a very good point Atlanta - I was 'schooled' in Christianity when I was a child - it was only when I reached adulthood that I decided, for me personally, religion was unfounded and had no place in my life. A young mind is an impressionable mind, and one that should not be filled with religious propaganda to suit the needs of others.
I wonder if a law will ever be passed to make religion an 18+ activity/ lifestyle choice?

[birdie1971]

Peaspeculiars - "...I wonder if a law will ever be passed to make religion an 18+ activity/ lifestyle choice?"

Rational people can only hope.