Educating Against Extremism: Towards a Critical Politicisation of Young People

The paper examines the nature of extremism; identity formation and radicalization; religious belief, faith schools and the myth of equal value; justice, revenge and honour; and free speech, humour and satire. It argues that religious fundamentalism, as well as state terrorism, needs to be addressed in schools. Specific forms of citizenship education are needed, which provide skills to analyse the media and political or religious messages, but also enable critical idealism to be fostered.