Abstract

Four factors have been generally adduced for faith-based violence, extremism and terrorism. The first factor stems from dearth in the recognition of the Other. The second reason which is not too far from the first is informed by campaigns of hatred and blackmail. The third is connected to the lack of a genuine understanding of the Other’s beliefs and values, when the fourth is extremism and intolerance. These factors present themselves even when faith has served some positive and veritable ends in civilization. Owing to the surge in terrorist and extremist activities related to faith, toleration and religious pluralism have usually been provided as consolations. This inquiry however finds these proposals necessary but insufficient. It is necessary because it helps with the first two factors identified hitherto, but not with the last two. It is therefore the onus of the present research as it employs the method of analysis and assumes Popper’s Critical Dialogue as theoretical framework to broker the place of the state in faith-induced terrorism. It is the conviction of this essay that assuming the four factors are given critical and thoughtful engagements from the framework herein, peace and love which are the cardinal goals among the religious faiths will then begin to glow almost effortlessly. The consequent will therefore not be far-fetched – peaceful and mutual cohesion regardless of identity.