There is a need to draw a clear distinction between radicalization and extremism. Radicalization is a forerunner for extremism. It is however possible to be a radical but not an extremist. But an extremist has to be both an extremist & a radical. Here is how: a radical individual or group of people radicalized develop extreme religious, political and social sets of belief.  However, violent extremism is a group of radicalized people who want to bring change by use of threats, fear and terrorism. We Want Positive Relations With Neighbors: Mullah Baradar Unresolved Kashmir issue to remain constant threat for world peace: Mushaal If we look at this from a wider societal perspective, Radicalism can be understood as people who believe in a very different set of beliefs but do not look to change the system at the cost of “the other.” It does not seek violent extremist methods to do so. Extremism on the other hand, looks at implementing its political agenda at the cost of all others. The system, the people having diverse opinions-using violence. All those outside the ambit of that group is seen as “subordinate” species. We often use both terms synonymously. But clearly, they are not. … Continue reading The evolution of radicalization in Pakistan