NAME: JACULBE, JEAN MICHELLE VILLA

COURSE AND PROGRAM: BSA 2

CONTEMPORARY WORLD

The Rise of ISIS: Unraveling the Link with Religious Fundamentalism

The emergence and rise of the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS) in the early 2010s captivated
the world's attention, prompting deep reflection and analysis. Understanding the link between the
rise of Islamic states in Iraq and Syria and religious fundamentalism is crucial to gaining insights
into the complex dynamics that fueled this phenomenon. Through examining the film "The Rise
of ISIS" and delving into scholarly research, I have gained valuable learnings regarding the
connection between religious fundamentalism and the ascent of ISIS.

At the core of the rise of Islamic states in Iraq and Syria lies religious fundamentalism, an
ideology characterized by a strict, literal interpretation of religious texts. The film vividly
portrays how ISIS drew upon this ideology, basing its actions on a particular understanding of
Islamic teachings. The group's leaders and followers claimed to be restoring a puritanical form of
Islam, adhering to their interpretation of religious texts, and intending to establish an Islamic
state governed by their version of Sharia law.

A fundamentalist worldview played a crucial role in shaping the actions and motivations of ISIS.
This perspective rejects modernity, secular governance, and cultural influences deemed
incompatible with their interpretation of Islam. The film highlighted how religious identity and
the preservation of traditional religious values were paramount to ISIS, often leading to the
suppression of religious and cultural diversity. The fundamentalist lens through which ISIS
viewed the world fueled a deep-seated desire to establish an idealized Islamic society, often at
the expense of others.

Understanding the link between religious fundamentalism and the rise of ISIS necessitates an
examination of recruitment and mobilization strategies employed by the group. The film
depicted the appeal of ISIS to individuals seeking purpose and belonging. The fundamentalist
interpretation provided a framework that justified violence, martyrdom, and the pursuit of a
religiously motivated political agenda. The allure of joining a movement that promised the
establishment of an Islamic state based on their religious beliefs was a powerful motivator for
many vulnerable individuals.

While religious fundamentalism played a significant role in the rise of ISIS, it is important to
acknowledge the broader social and political context that contributed to this phenomenon. The
film highlighted the sectarian tensions, political instability, governance failures, regional
conflicts, and power vacuums that facilitated the group's rise. These factors created an
environment in which extremist ideologies could take root and gain traction, further exacerbating
the connection between religious fundamentalism and the rise of Islamic states in Iraq and Syria.
In examining "The Rise of ISIS" and exploring the link between the rise of Islamic states in Iraq
and Syria and religious fundamentalism, several key learnings have emerged. Religious
fundamentalism, characterized by a strict interpretation of religious texts and a fundamentalist
worldview, provided the ideological foundation for the actions of ISIS. Understanding this link
helps shed light on the motivations, recruitment strategies, and appeal of extremist groups like
ISIS. However, it is vital to recognize that religious fundamentalism should not be equated with
terrorism or violence, as the vast majority of religious fundamentalists do not engage in such
acts. By comprehending the complex dynamics at play, we can work towards addressing the root
causes of religious extremism while promoting peace, tolerance, and understanding.