Religion and Radicalism

'Radical' derives from the Latin radix meaning 'root' or 'origin'. Radical movements represent a challenge to established views by returning to a thorough critique of the fundamental ideas, principles and structures upon which political and social systems are formed. While on the one hand, religion is often accused of fuelling intolerance, terrorism, or even of starting wars, it is, on the other hand, often invoked by individuals and movements as providing nourishment for struggles against injustice and exploitation. The 'Religion and Radicalism' book series is concerned with left-wing radicalism, broadly understood, and the way religious discourse, beliefs, traditions, and texts are invoked in relation to progressive politics. The series responds to a growing interest in the role that religion can play both as a vehicle for cultural change but also as a means of legitimating reactionary impulses in society.