Social Movements, Conflicts and Rise of Extremism in Pakistan
Social Movements, Conflicts and Rise of Extremism in Pakistan

Summary/Abstract: This article deals with the ethnic, religious and political culture of Pakistan. It provides a comparative view of three social movements: traditionalism, Islamism and constitutionalism. The traditionalist social movement argues that tribal values are an important base for social justice and should be given supremacy. Islamists see the divine rules as the panacea of justice. However, constitutionalists (or modernists) are pushing for modernization and the rule of law. These three social movements share some common characteristics. They all involve violent struggles and pursue the notion of social justice. They also have some uncommon characteristics: different sources of inspiration and strategy in pursuing their goals. The disputes and their chain reaction are discussed in the article. The phenomenon is analyzed in terms of structure, culture and agency interplay. Social change is blocked due to cultural and structural forces, which constituted a revolt against the system.

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