Extreme Ways

Photograph of a bus after being attacked by a rocket in Lebanon in 1970.This activity addresses module outcome 1. Upon completion of this activity, you will be able to: • MO1: Differentiate between the cultures and religions that engage in terrorism in the Middle East. (CO4) The Middle East has come to be known as a hotbed of terrorist activity in recent decades. However, some feel that the geographical location of the Middle East is not so much as place, as a concept. In other words, it is a sense of something greater than a plot of land. However, with this many cultures, factions, religions and ideologies, it is also a prime breeding ground for hate, dissent, conflict and terrorism. Many religions and ideologies are not rooted in violence. In fact, most are not. However, extremists seem to generate factions away from the main groups in an effort to advance their causes. Generally, in a violent and terror-based manner. After completing your assigned readings and viewings, and any research you conduct, respond to the following: •Research and identify at least two Middle Eastern religions, cultures or groups whose main ideology is based upon peace and the maintenance of law, order, and civility; and who have splinter factions of extremists that have turned to violence and terror to accomplish their goals. Explain with as much detail as possible the contrast between the groups and their extremist factions.