Extremism, Social Learning Theory, and Rational Choice

Abstract

This research addresses the phenomenon of extremism, which is one of the most serious challenges facing modern societies, by linking it to two prominent theories in social sciences: Social Learning Theory and Rational Choice Theory. The study aims to understand how individuals adopt extremist behaviors through learning from their surrounding social environment, as explained by Social Learning Theory, and to understand how extremist decisions can be made through rational evaluation of costs and benefits, as proposed by Rational Choice Theory.

The research also examines how the social environment influences the formation of extremist thoughts and behaviors among individuals, showing that criminal behavior—including extremism—is often learned behavior. Through examples and previous studies, the research highlights the role of family and social environments in guiding behavior toward extremism.

As for Rational Choice Theory, it suggests that individuals may engage in extremist behaviors as a means of achieving personal or social goals, based on a rational analysis of the potential outcomes. This underscores the role of individual motivations and the absence of shared goals in fostering a tendency toward extremism.

The research concludes that understanding extremism requires an interactive study of the social and rational factors that influence individuals' decisions. It emphasizes the need to focus on modifying the social environment and supporting peaceful, rational choices to reduce individuals' inclination toward extremism.