Self-Assurance and the Need for Balance in the Face of Extremism

Given the ideological character of the fundamentalism and terrorism (as well as the often useless reactionary responses to them) that plagues us at this time it is absolutely clear that in order to combat it we must adopt mental and spiritual, as well as physical defenses – and there is no defense so effective as embracing the true spirit of humanity and thus rejecting the hatred preached by sectarians of all kinds. The psychological aim of realizing one’s purpose and fulfilling one’s potential as a human being is a strong sense of self-assurance and self-actualization via the perfection and utilization of one’s capabilities. This process builds a sense of conviction with regard to one’s role in the world and boosts individual confidence and willpower to a great and laudable extent.

However, we must differentiate this form of self-assurance that arises from self-fulfillment with the fanaticism that emerges out of total devotion to a cause. Fanaticism does breed a sense of complete self-assurance, indeed, a self-assurance so complete that they come to live by the maxim of the ends justifies the means; all forms of barbarity and perversity are thus cast in a golden light as being what is necessary for the realization of a greater and all-consuming cause. This is alienation of the worst kind and its effects have lead to full-scale human slaughter on numerous occasions throughout history.

Complete self-assurance in the individual, and in the group, can only be described as fanaticism and this can only be described as an alienating phenomenon. Self-assurance, like many things, is good so long as it is held in moderation; confidence and conviction are excellent virtues but like so many things they can be taken too far and result in the corruption of the human spirit.

It is true that it is absolutely essential that we have confidence in ourselves. Negative stress that breaks us down instead of empowering us is often due to a lack of self-confidence and when we have a clear sense of purpose and conviction we are able to transcend such stress and ultimately transform it into a positive force that will empower us in our efforts in life. It is clear that purpose, fulfillment, and self-actualization are what really bring about wellbeing for the human mind, body, and spirit.

What fanaticism amounts to is a perversion of this process, where the unfulfilled individual who has not realized their natural purpose and is desperately searching for meaning, embraces and is utterly consumed by the creed that he or she comes to believe in.

This fanaticism is a plague we must guard against with vigilance and strength. There is no better defense against the desperation and alienation that breeds fanaticism than self-actualization and the support of one’s peers and community. Human fulfillment is an exercise in unity in diversity and requires solidarity with others as well as conviction within oneself.