The Unique Value of Extremes

What is extremism? There would be many answers depending on the subject. Then, what is extreme? The word originates from extremes in Latin, meaning “outermost”. In math or statistics, it refers to being distant from the “mean”. In our daily language, we use it for defining abnormal, for those who do not fit in the society. When we talk about “youth extremism in the modern society”, there we will find a group of young people seeking recognition. This could be in form of violence, self-destruction, addiction, religiousness, or sexuality while all of which is to express feelings and to be visible.

Young people are one of the most isolated groups in society for being considered as incapable or juvenile, and isolation triggers extremism. Yet, they also represent the least biased and creative community in the society, which have a great potential to become a part of the solution with their unoriented curiosity and stamina. Regarding the latter, the inclusion of young people in society will empower the future of societies and innovative solutions. Creating a dialogue and showing that their problems are “worth discussing” would be beneficial for both ends.
Therefore, encouraging young people by focusing on their assets rather than deficits would be the key element for avoiding youth extremism. It is important to help them find their sense of identity and make them feel safe & secure. Throughout the process, positive communication would have the most significant role. By these means, it would be possible to recruit those with extremity problems, as members of the society with unique assets.

At this point, helping them unrevealing their skills, preferably with non-formal approaches, and let them be involved in the general workflow would enhance their identity and integrity feelings. Their “extremism” backgrounds should be appraised as elements of diversity and utilized for understanding the behavior for further cooperation and recruitment.

Youth would be worth the effort. Investing in human capital, especially on young people, always have a greater impact than anticipated. The impact accumulates and could lead to a self-sustaining solidarity model, which can be achieved only via strong communities.