Guarding Against Extremism in the 21st Century

Anthony Wells shows in graphic terms how extremism can develop in a democratic and educated society with strong cultural and religious traditions and values. A wide range of critical factors are examined that show how extremism can take root, grow, recruit all ages, and take total control of society. Dr. Wells reveals how extremism can take root by devious and nefarious means in an era of electronic communications and an Internet that connects the world, and therefore outside influences on those whose intent is to create and pursue extremism.

Media controls and influences are shown as means to absolutist ends and demagoguery as the means to evil ends. We are graphically reminded that controlling public opinion by controlling media and all democratic outlets across all aspects of societal domains can deny the freedom of speech that is the sacred right of American society. Extremism can grow like a cancer, suddenly, without warning in some cases, and is there, unchallenged because of the very nature of a free society protected by the First Amendment. This is a must-read book to ensure that we are all aware of the present dangers and how we may successfully anticipate and guard against extremism.