A Paper on :-

 Review of Book “Extremism” by J.M Berger

 How theory/framework presented in the book applies to the
prevalent extremism in Pakistan.

By

Zohaib Zulfiqar
Jr. Analyst
CFT Branch
NACTA
Government of Pakistan
  Review of Book “Extremism” by J.M Berger

In order to make the review of book, we will explain the book under
following heads as described by the writer: -

a) Delenda Est
b) Definition of Extremism
c) In-Groups and Out Groups
d) Crises and Solution
e) Radicalization
f) Future of Extremism

a) Delenda Est

In his book Extremism, JM Berger discusses the phrase "Carthago delenda

est" (Latin for "Carthage must be destroyed"). He argues that this phrase
is a classic example of an extremist slogan.

The phrase was first used by the Roman senator Cato the Elder in the 2nd
century BC. Cato was a staunch opponent of Carthage, a rival city-state
that had defeated Rome in the First Punic War. He believed that Carthage
was a threat to Rome and that it must be destroyed.

Berger argues that the phrase "Carthago delenda est" is an example of an

extremist slogan because it is:

 Absolute: It makes no allowances for compromise or negotiation.

 Manichean: It divides the world into two camps: the good (Rome)
and the evil (Carthage).
 Violent: It advocates the use of force to achieve its goals.

Berger argues that extremist slogans like "Carthago delenda est" can be
dangerous because they can lead to violence and other forms of
extremism. He also argues that it is important to be aware of these slogans
and to challenge them whenever possible.
In addition to the above, Berger also discusses the following points about
the phrase "Carthago delenda est":

 It is a call to action. It is not enough to simply say that Carthage

must be destroyed. There must be a plan to make it happen.
 It is a rallying cry. It can be used to unite people around a common
cause.
 It is a warning. It can be used to deter others from taking actions
that are seen as a threat.

The phrase "Carthago delenda est" is a powerful reminder of the dangers

of extremism. It is a reminder that even seemingly innocuous slogans can
be used to justify violence and hatred. It is important to be aware of these
slogans and to challenge them whenever possible.

Moreover, Writer also discussed U.S. Supreme Court opinion attempting

to define pornography for legal purposes, Justice Potter Stewart summed
up the nebulous nature of the concept in seven now-infamous words. He
couldn’t offer a workable definition, he wrote, but “I know it when I see
it.”

According to writer, this test applied to one of the world’s most pressing
problems, a rising tide of extremist movements that are destabilizing civil
societies around the globe. Virtually everyone acknowledges the severity
of the threat, but extremism is still most often classified according to
Stewart’s criteria: we know it when we see it. And as with pornography,
we do not all agree about what passes the test.

b) Definition of Extremism

Berger begins by defining extremism as "the advocacy of extreme

measures or views, especially in politics." He argues that extremism is not
a monolithic phenomenon, but rather a complex and multifaceted one.
There are many different types of extremism, each with its own unique
set of causes and consequences.

Berger identifies three key features of extremism:

 1. Advocates extreme measures or views. Extremists believe that the
only way to achieve their goals is through radical or violent means.
They often reject the status quo and believe that the world is
fundamentally unjust.

2. Believes that their cause is morally justified. Extremists believe that

they are fighting for a just cause, even if their methods are not. They
often see themselves as martyrs or revolutionaries.

3. Is willing to use violence to achieve their goals. Extremists are often

willing to use violence to achieve their goals. They may justify
violence as a necessary evil or as a way to defend themselves or their
cause.

Berger argues that extremism is not always bad. In some cases, extremists
can be motivated by a desire to improve the world. However, he also
warns that extremism can be dangerous, especially when it leads to
violence.

Berger traces the history of extremism from the ancient world to the
present day. He argues that extremism has always been a part of human
society, but that it has become more prevalent in recent decades. He
attributes this to a number of factors, including globalization, the rise of
new technologies, and the decline of traditional institutions.

Berger identifies three main waves of extremism in history:

1. The religious wave. This wave of extremism began in the Middle

Ages and was characterized by the rise of religious movements that
advocated violence and intolerance. Examples of this wave include
the Crusades, the Inquisition, and the Protestant Reformation.

2. The political wave. This wave of extremism began in the 19th

century and was characterized by the rise of political movements
that advocated violence and revolution. Examples of this wave
include anarchism, communism, and fascism.
 3. The globalized wave. This wave of extremism began in the late 20th
century and is characterized by the rise of extremist movements that
use new technologies and global networks to spread their message.
Examples of this wave include al-Qaeda, ISIS, and the alt-right.

Berger argues that each wave of extremism has been shaped by the unique
historical circumstances of its time. However, he also argues that there are
some common themes that run through all of these waves. These themes
include a desire to create a utopian society, a belief in the use of violence,
and a sense of alienation from mainstream society.

Berger argues that there is no single cause of extremism, but rather a

complex interplay of factors. These factors can include individual
psychology, social and economic conditions, political grievances, and
religious beliefs.

Individual psychology. Some people are more likely to be drawn to

extremism than others. These people may have certain personality traits,
such as a need for belonging or a sense of entitlement. They may also have
experienced trauma or abuse, which can make them more vulnerable to
extremist recruitment.

Social and economic conditions. Extremism is often more likely to thrive

in societies that are experiencing social and economic problems. These
problems can create a sense of alienation and despair, which can make
people more receptive to extremist messages.

Political grievances. People who feel that they have been wronged by the
government or by society are more likely to be drawn to extremism. This
is especially true in countries where there is a history of oppression or
where there is a lack of political representation.

Religious beliefs. Religious beliefs can also play a role in extremism. Some
religious ideologies can be interpreted in a way that justifies violence or
intolerance. Additionally, religious institutions can sometimes provide a
sense of community and purpose that can make people more susceptible
to extremist recruitment.
 C) In-Groups and Out Groups

In his book Extremism, JM Berger discusses the concept of in-groups and

out-groups. He argues that these concepts are essential to understanding
how extremism works.

An in-group is a social group to which a person psychologically identifies

as being a member. By contrast, an outgroup is a social group with which
an individual does not identify.

Berger argues that extremists often define themselves in opposition to an

outgroup. They see the outgroup as a threat to their in-group and their
way of life. This can lead to a sense of hostility and violence towards the
outgroup.

For example, ISIS sees the West as an outgroup and its members are
taught to hate and kill Westerners. Similarly, white supremacists see non-
white people as an outgroup and their members are taught to hate and
kill non-white people.

Berger argues that the concept of in-groups and outgroups is a powerful

force that can be used to recruit and radicalize people. He also argues that
it is important to understand this concept in order to combat extremism.
Here are some additional points that Berger makes about in-groups and
outgroups:

 People are more likely to be hostile towards outgroups that they

perceive as being different from them.
 People are more likely to be hostile towards outgroups that they
perceive as being a threat to them.
 Extremists often use the concept of ingroups and outgroups to
create a sense of us versus them mentality.
 This can lead to violence and other forms of extremism.

It is important to note that not all in-groups and out-groups are inherently
negative. In fact, in-groups can provide a sense of belonging and identity.
However, when in-groups are used to justify hostility and violence, they
can become a dangerous force.
 D) Crises and Solution

JM Berger describes the crisis of extremism as a complex and multifaceted

one. He argues that there is no single solution to the problem of
extremism, but that it is important to address the root causes and to work
together to counter the threat.

Some of the root causes of extremism that Berger identifies include:

 Social and economic problems. Extremism is often more likely to

thrive in societies that are experiencing social and economic
problems. These problems can create a sense of alienation and
despair, which can make people more receptive to extremist
messages.

 Political grievances. People who feel that they have been wronged
by the government or by society are more likely to be drawn to
extremism. This is especially true in countries where there is a
history of oppression or where there is a lack of political
representation.

 Religious beliefs. Religious beliefs can also play a role in extremism.

Some religious ideologies can be interpreted in a way that justifies
violence or intolerance. Additionally, religious institutions can
sometimes provide a sense of community and purpose that can
make people more susceptible to extremist recruitment.

Berger argues that there are a number of things that can be done to combat
extremism, including:

 Addressing the root causes of extremism. This means addressing

social and economic problems, addressing political grievances, and
challenging extremist ideologies.

 Promoting tolerance and understanding. This means teaching

people about different cultures and religions and encouraging them
to respect the views of others.
  Countering extremist propaganda. This means exposing the lies
and distortions that are often used to recruit and radicalize people.

 Empowering communities. This means providing people with the

skills and resources they need to resist extremism.

Berger argues that it is important to take a comprehensive approach to

combating extremism. There is no single solution that will work in every
case, but by addressing the root causes of extremism and promoting
tolerance and understanding, we can make it more difficult for extremists
to recruit and radicalize people.
In addition to the above, Berger also discusses the following points about
the solution to the crisis of extremism:

 It is a long-term process. It will take time to address the root causes

of extremism and to build a more tolerant and understanding
world.

 It requires international cooperation. No country can combat

extremism on its own. It is important to work together to share
information and resources.

 It is not easy. There will be setbacks along the way. But it is

important to persevere and to never give up hope.

 The crisis of extremism is a serious one, but it is not insurmountable.

By working together, we can create a world where extremism is no
longer a threat.

E) Radicalization

The writer JM Berger describes radicalization as a process by which

people come to adopt extreme or intolerant views. He argues that
radicalization is not a monolithic phenomenon, but rather a complex and
multifaceted one. There are many different ways that people can become
radicalized, and there is no single profile of a radicalized individual.
Berger identifies three main stages of radicalization:

1. Pre-radicalization. This is the stage where people are open to

extremist ideas, but they have not yet adopted them. They may
be feeling alienated or disenfranchised, and they may be looking
for answers.
2. Radicalization. This is the stage where people start to adopt
extremist views. They may be drawn to extremist groups or
ideologies, and they may start to engage in extremist activities.
3. Deradicalization. This is the stage where people start to abandon
extremist views. They may come to realize the harmful effects of
extremism, or they may be persuaded by others to change their
views.

Berger argues that radicalization is a complex process that is influenced

by a variety of factors, including:

 Individual factors. These include the individual's personality,

beliefs, and experiences.
 Social factors. These include the individual's social environment,
such as their family, friends, and community.
 Political factors. These include the political climate, such as the
presence of conflict or oppression.
 Religious factors. These include the individual's religious beliefs
and experiences.

Berger argues that it is important to understand the factors that contribute

to radicalization in order to prevent it from happening. He also argues
that it is important to provide support to people who are at risk of
radicalization, so that they can avoid becoming radicalized.

 Here are some additional points that Berger makes about

radicalization:
 Radicalization is not always a linear process. People can move back
and forth between different stages of radicalization.
 Radicalization can be a gradual process, or it can happen very
quickly.
  There is no single profile of a radicalized individual. People from all
walks of life can become radicalized.

Radicalization is a complex and multifaceted phenomenon. There is no

single definition of radicalization, and there is no single way to prevent it.
However, by understanding the factors that contribute to radicalization,
we can better prevent it from happening.

F) The Future of Extremism

JM Berger sees the future of extremism as a complex and uncertain one.

He argues that there are a number of factors that could contribute to the
rise of extremism in the coming years, including:

 The spread of misinformation and disinformation. The internet has made

it easier for extremists to spread their message and to recruit new
members.
 The increasing polarization of societies. The rise of social media has made
it easier for people to self-segregate into echo chambers where they are
only exposed to information that confirms their existing beliefs. This can
make people more susceptible to extremist ideas.
 The decline of trust in traditional institutions. People are increasingly
distrustful of governments, the media, and other institutions. This can
make them more likely to turn to extremist groups for answers.
 The rise of new technologies. New technologies, such as artificial
intelligence and virtual reality, could be used by extremists to spread their
message and to recruit new members.

However, Berger also argues that there are a number of factors that could
contribute to the decline of extremism in the coming years, including:

 The growth of counter-extremism programs. There are a number of

programs that are working to counter extremism and to prevent people
from becoming radicalized.
 The increasing awareness of the dangers of extremism. People are
becoming more aware of the dangers of extremism and are more likely to
challenge it.
 The resilience of communities. Strong communities are more likely to be
able to resist the lure of extremism.
 The rise of new social movements. New social movements, such as the
Black Lives Matter movement, are challenging the status quo and are
providing people with alternative ways to express their dissatisfaction.

The future of extremism is uncertain, but it is clear that it is a serious threat

that needs to be addressed. By understanding the factors that contribute
to extremism and by working to counter them, we can create a world
where extremism is no longer a threat.

Here are some additional points that Berger makes about the future of
extremism:

 Extremism is likely to remain a problem in the coming years, but it is

possible to reduce its impact.
 It is important to be vigilant and to challenge extremist ideas whenever
possible.
 We need to work together to build a more tolerant and understanding
world.

 How theory/framework presented in the book applies to the

prevalent extremism in Pakistan.

The book Extremism by JM Berger is relevant to the prevalent extremism

in Pakistan in a number of ways.
First, the book provides a comprehensive overview of the different types
of extremism, the causes of extremism, and the consequences of
extremism. This information can be helpful for understanding the factors
that contribute to extremism in Pakistan.
Second, the book discusses the role of ingroups and outgroups in
extremism. This is a relevant concept in Pakistan, where there is a long
history of sectarian violence between different religious groups.
Third, the book discusses the use of social media and other technologies
by extremists to spread their message and to recruit new members. This
is a particularly relevant issue in Pakistan, where social media is widely
used and where there is a large number of young people who are active
online.
Fourth, the book discusses the challenges of countering extremism. This
is a relevant issue in Pakistan, where there is a strong military presence
and where there is a history of government crackdowns on extremist
groups.
Fifth, the book discusses the importance of understanding the root causes
of extremism in order to develop effective counter-extremism strategies.
This is a relevant issue in Pakistan, where there are a number of complex
factors that contribute to extremism, such as poverty, inequality, and
political instability.
Overall, the book Extremism by JM Berger provides a valuable overview
of the different aspects of extremism that are relevant to the situation in
Pakistan. The book can be helpful for understanding the causes of
extremism, the consequences of extremism, and the challenges of
countering extremism.
In addition to the above, here are some specific examples of how the book
is relevant to the prevalent extremism in Pakistan:
The book discusses the role of poverty and inequality in extremism. These
are two major problems in Pakistan, and they can make people more
susceptible to extremist recruitment.
The book discusses the role of political instability in extremism. Pakistan
has a long history of political instability, and this can create a breeding
ground for extremism.
The book discusses the role of religious extremism in Pakistan. There are
a number of extremist groups operating in Pakistan, and they have been
responsible for a number of terrorist attacks.
The book discusses the role of social media in extremism. Social media is
widely used in Pakistan, and it has been used by extremist groups to
spread their message and to recruit new members.
The book Extremism by JM Berger is a valuable resource for anyone who
wants to understand the prevalent extremism in Pakistan. The book
provides a comprehensive overview of the different aspects of extremism,
and it offers insights into the causes, consequences, and challenges of
countering extremism.
Moreover, a more detailed explanation of how the book Extremism by JM
Berger is relevant to the prevalent extremism in Pakistan is provided as
under: -
The History of Extremism in Pakistan
Pakistan has a long history of extremism. The country was founded in
1947 on the basis of the two-nation theory, which divided the
subcontinent into a Muslim-majority state and a Hindu-majority state.
This division created a sense of religious identity among Muslims in
Pakistan, which has been exploited by extremist groups.
In the 1980s, Pakistan became a major hub for the training of mujahideen
fighters who were fighting against the Soviet occupation of Afghanistan.
Many of these mujahideen fighters later returned to Pakistan and became
involved in sectarian violence and terrorism.
In the 1990s, Pakistan became a major center for the activities of al-Qaeda.
Al-Qaeda is a terrorist group that is responsible for the 9/11 attacks and
other terrorist attacks around the world.
The September 11 attacks had a profound impact on Pakistan, both
domestically and internationally. In the aftermath of the attacks, the
Pakistani government came under pressure from the United States to
crack down on extremist groups operating within its borders. This led to
a number of high-profile arrests and the dismantlement of some extremist
networks. However, it also created a sense of resentment among some
Pakistanis, who felt that their government was being too accommodating
to the United States.
This resentment was exploited by extremist groups, who used it to recruit
new members and to justify their violent activities. In the years since 9/11,
there has been a resurgence of extremism in Pakistan, and the country has
been plagued by a number of terrorist attacks.
There are a number of factors that have contributed to the rise of
extremism in Pakistan since 9/11. These include:
The ongoing conflict in Afghanistan. The war in Afghanistan has created
a safe haven for extremist groups, including the Taliban and al-Qaeda.
These groups have been able to use the Afghan border region to train and
plan attacks in Pakistan and other countries.
The rise of sectarian violence. There is a long history of sectarian violence
in Pakistan, and this has been exacerbated by extremist groups. These
groups have targeted members of minority religious groups, such as
Shiites and Christians.
The spread of extremist ideology online. The internet has made it easier
for extremist groups to spread their message and to recruit new members.
This is especially true in Pakistan, where there is a large number of young
people who are active online.
The failure of the Pakistani government to address the root causes of
extremism. The Pakistani government has not been able to effectively
address the root causes of extremism, such as poverty, inequality, and
political instability. This has created a fertile ground for extremist groups
to recruit new members.
The rise of extremism in Pakistan is a serious problem that has had a
devastating impact on the country. It is important to address the root
causes of extremism in order to prevent it from becoming more
widespread.
In recent years, there has been a resurgence of extremism in Pakistan. This
is due to a number of factors, including the ongoing conflict in
Afghanistan, the rise of sectarianism, and the spread of extremist ideology
online.
The Causes of Extremism in Pakistan
There are a number of factors that contribute to extremism in Pakistan.
These include:
Poverty and inequality. Pakistan is one of the poorest countries in the
world, and this can make people more susceptible to extremist
recruitment.
Political instability. Pakistan has a long history of political instability, and
this can create a breeding ground for extremism.
Religious extremism. There are a number of extremist groups operating
in Pakistan, and they have been responsible for a number of terrorist
attacks.
Social media. Social media is widely used in Pakistan, and it has been used
by extremist groups to spread their message and to recruit new members.
Foreign intervention. Pakistan has been involved in a number of conflicts
in neighboring countries, and this has created a sense of insecurity and
resentment among some Pakistanis.
The Consequences of Extremism in Pakistan
The consequences of extremism in Pakistan are far-reaching. These
include:
Violence and terrorism. Extremist groups have been responsible for a
number of terrorist attacks in Pakistan, killing hundreds of people.
Sectarian violence. There is a long history of sectarian violence in
Pakistan, and this has been exacerbated by extremist groups.
Political instability. Extremism has contributed to political instability in
Pakistan, making it difficult to build a stable and prosperous country.
Human rights abuses. Extremist groups have committed a number of
human rights abuses, including the killing of civilians, the kidnapping of
women and children, and the destruction of property.
Damage to the economy. Extremism has damaged the economy of
Pakistan, making it difficult to attract foreign investment and create jobs.

Countering Extremism in Pakistan

There is no easy solution to the problem of extremism in Pakistan.
However, there are a number of things that can be done to counter
extremism, including:
Addressing the root causes of extremism. This includes addressing
poverty, inequality, and political instability.
Promoting tolerance and understanding. This can be done through
education
Future of extremism in Pakistan
The future of extremism in Pakistan is uncertain. There are a number of
factors that could contribute to the rise or decline of extremism in the
country.
Some of the factors that could contribute to the rise of extremism include:
  The ongoing conflict in Afghanistan. The war in Afghanistan has
created a safe haven for extremist groups, including the Taliban and
al-Qaeda. These groups have been able to use the Afghan border
region to train and plan attacks in Pakistan and other countries.
 The rise of sectarian violence. There is a long history of sectarian
violence in Pakistan, and this has been exacerbated by extremist
groups. These groups have targeted members of minority religious
groups, such as Shiites and Christians.
 The spread of extremist ideology online. The internet has made it
easier for extremist groups to spread their message and to recruit
new members. This is especially true in Pakistan, where there is a
large number of young people who are active online.
 The failure of the Pakistani government to address the root causes
of extremism. The Pakistani government has not been able to
effectively address the root causes of extremism, such as poverty,
inequality, and political instability. This has created a fertile ground
for extremist groups to recruit new members.
Some of the factors that could contribute to the decline of extremism
include:
 The growth of counter-extremism programs. NACTA Counter
Violent Extremism shall define a comprehensive policy framework
and regular follow-up shall be made for effective implementation
by all stakeholders.
 The increasing awareness of the dangers of extremism. People are
becoming more aware of the dangers of extremism and are more
likely to challenge it.
 The resilience of communities. Strong communities are more likely
to be able to resist the lure of extremism.
 The rise of new social movements. New social movements, such as
the Black Lives Matter movement, are challenging the status quo
and are providing people with alternative ways to express their
dissatisfaction.
The future of extremism in Pakistan is uncertain, but it is clear that it is a
serious threat that needs to be addressed. By understanding the factors
that contribute to extremism and by working to counter them, we can
create a world where extremism is no longer a threat.
In addition to the above, here are some other factors that could influence
the future of extremism in Pakistan:
The political situation in Pakistan. The country has a history of political
instability, and this can create a breeding ground for extremism.
The economic situation in Pakistan. The country is one of the poorest in
the world, and this can make people more susceptible to extremist
recruitment.
The role of foreign powers. Pakistan has been involved in a number of
conflicts in neighboring countries, and this has created a sense of
insecurity and resentment among some Pakistanis.
The spread of social media. Social media has made it easier for extremist
groups to spread their message and to recruit new members.
The future of extremism in Pakistan is a complex issue with no easy
answers. However, by understanding the factors that contribute to
extremism and by working to counter them, we can create a world where
extremism is no longer a threat.

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