Fundamentalist

There are many interpretations of this widely used term.  It is often associated with conservative religious beliefs across traditions but its origins lie in an early twentieth century American Protestant group that published a series of twelve pamphlets entitled The Fundamentals. Following a long tradition of different opinions regarding Biblical interpretation, fundamentalists were responding to new Biblical scholarship that examined the Bible in its historical context. They were also responding to a rise in secularism, including scientific explanations for human origins and development. Though there were differences among fundamentalists, most promoted biblical inerrancy, a belief in the miracles depicted in the Bible as true, the divinity of Jesus, and a belief that Jesus will return again in judgment.