Extremism, Ideology, and a Humanistic Society: An Analysis

History and social science reveal that any ideology—whether religious beliefs, political doctrines, or individual-centered narratives like narcissism—tends to follow a similar pattern among its followers. The vast majority of adherents live ordinary, peaceful lives. They remain silent, inactive, and rarely engage in leadership struggles or seek power. Yet, within this large majority, a small minority becomes extremist. These extremists believe they are most suited for leadership and entitled to wield power.

It is the actions of this small extremist minority that ultimately shape the trajectory of the entire group. The silent majority, often unknowingly, supports or enables these extremist activities, creating the social and psychological conditions necessary for the reproduction of extremism. Social scientists and historians refer to this phenomenon as the “Silent majority effect.”

Historical and contemporary evidence shows that extremists are disproportionately responsible for organized violence. They engage in conflicts, wars, sexual violence, ethnic oppression, and communal riots. Such behaviors are not typical of ordinary people; they require deliberate planning, risk-taking, and coordination. Additionally, gender-based statistics indicate that most extremists are men, reflecting evolutionary tendencies and social structures.

For moral, social, and economic advancement today, what is urgently needed is a secular, rational, and scientifically informed society. Ideologies become dangerous primarily when exploited for power, and in such circumstances, science itself can sometimes be misused against humanity—for example, in racism, claims of genetic superiority, oppressive technologies, or state-sanctioned persecution.

Therefore, the most effective way to reduce extremism is through science-oriented thinking and practice, a society grounded in logic and fairness, humanistic values, and education that promotes justice. Such a framework ensures that the majority remains peaceful, while the radical minority cannot dominate social or political life. In short, a humanistic, secular, and science-driven society is the only sustainable way to prevent the reproduction of extremism and establish lasting peace.