ABSTRACT
This chapter discusses the ways in which religion contributes to social unity as well as social conflict. Whereas many sociologists of religion have focused on the role religion plays in creating social integration, religion’s contribution to conflict has been perceived to be more problematic. The 1970s and 1980s witnessed an increase in conflict and controversy as religious groups experienced growth in the United States, Europe, Latin America, and the Middle East. This religious resurgence was commonly termed “fundamentalism.” Although most forms of fundamentalism were peaceful, others have engaged in terror and religious violence.
