WHAT’S YOUR F-Q (Fanaticism Quotient)?

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1. Fanaticism is defined as excessive, irrational zeal or unscrupulous dedication.

True. The fanatic believes that the ends justify the means, and is defined by a willingness to use any means to accomplish a chosen purpose or cause

2. Throughout history, fanatics have always been harmful people with little redeeming social value.

False. While fanatics have caused great harm and destruction throughout history, they have also made major contributions to society (e.g. Martin Luther). 

3. Fanaticism is a Judeo-Christian invention.

True. Fanatic behavior was first documented in the Old Testament as the Hebrews engaged in bloody conquest to take possession of the Promised Land. Judas is a famous fanatic from the New Testament.

4. Fanaticism is associated with religion, and does not appear in other endeavors of society such as politics, science, or education.

False. While fanaticism is not always expressed through violence, it appears in all of society’s organized endeavors.  

5. Revolutions in history have typically included a fanatical component.

True. For example, the American, French, and Russian Revolutions had some leaders that expressed fanatical behavior. 

6. The violent fanaticism that launched the French revolution led to great improvements in living conditions for the average citizen.

False. Most of the improvements in living conditions came in the years leading up to the revolution.

7. Extreme fanatics such as Adolph Hitler are often nihilistic (intent on the destruction of existing institutions to ensure future improvement).

True. Fanatics want to start over from scratch and do things their way, rather than reform existing institutions. 

8. A culture of fanaticism is often associated with heightened creativity and artistic achievements.

False. Fanaticism enables a culture of fear, which typically inhibits creative and artistic expression. Napoleon’s France, Stalin’s Soviet Union, and Hitler’s Germany are notable examples of how fanaticism inhibits creativity. 

9. Fanatics are usually willing to use any means necessary to accomplish their purpose, even violence.

True. Throughout history, fanatics have been a major force in large-scale bloodshed and war.

10.Western religion was not plagued by fanaticism until the founding of Islam.

False. From the beginning, Judaism and Christianity have been influenced by fanatics.

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For additional information about development of religious fanaticism, see Chapter 5 of “The Richest of Fare: Seeking Spiritual Security in the Sonoran Desert” by Phyllis Strupp.

Purchase "The Richest of Fare: Seeking Spiritual Security in the Sonoran Desert" at Amazon.com

May 1, 2005: What’s Your EV-Q (Evolution Quotient)?
June 1, 2005: What’s Your ME-Q (Mother Earth Quotient)?
July 1, 2005: What’s Your U-Q (Universe Quotient)?
September 1, 2005: What’s Your CIV-Q (Civilization Quotient)?
August 1, 2005: What’s Your LE-Q (Life on Earth Quotient)?
October 1, 2005: What’s Your CIV-Q (Civilization Quotient)?
November 1, 2005: What’s Your SPIR-Q (Spirituality Quotient)?
December 1, 2005: What’s Your SPIF-Q (Spirituality Quotient)?
January 1, 2006: What’s Your F-Q (Fanaticism Quotient)?
February 1, 2006: What’s Your D-Q (Desert Quotient)?