Sectarianism refers to excessive or narrow-minded adherence to a particular religious, political, or ideological group, often leading to division, conflict, and discrimination between different groups. In a religious context, sectarianism arises when members of one denomination or sect view themselves as superior to others, leading to hostility, exclusion, or violence toward those with differing beliefs.

Key Concepts:

1. Division and Conflict:
   Sectarianism often leads to division within a larger religious or societal group. In religion, it can manifest as conflicts between different Christian denominations or between different religions, driven by perceived doctrinal or cultural differences.
2. Intolerance and Exclusivism:
   A key characteristic of sectarianism is the belief that one’s own group or interpretation of faith is the only true one. This leads to intolerance of other groups, often resulting in alienation or persecution.
3. Social and Political Implications:
   Sectarianism is not limited to religious contexts. It can also apply to political and social groups, where loyalty to a specific faction or ideology results in conflict with other groups, creating divisions within communities or nations.

Controversy:

1. Religious Identity vs. Unity:
   Sectarianism is often criticized for undermining the unity of religious communities. While religious identity can provide a sense of belonging, excessive sectarianism can lead to division and strife within the broader faith community, undermining shared beliefs.
2. Historical Conflicts:
   Sectarianism has played a role in numerous historical conflicts, such as the Protestant-Catholic conflict in Northern Ireland, the Sunni-Shia divide in Islam, or the divisions between different Christian denominations.
3. Ecumenical Efforts:
   Many religious leaders and organizations work to combat sectarianism through ecumenical movements, which seek to promote dialogue, cooperation, and understanding between different religious groups, counteracting division and fostering unity.

Historical Background:

1. Early Christian Divisions:
   Sectarianism has deep roots in Christianity, beginning with early theological disagreements, such as those between the Roman Catholic and Orthodox churches, which culminated in the Great Schism of 1054. Later, the Protestant Reformation further splintered the Christian faith into various denominations.
2. Sectarian Conflicts in History:
   Throughout history, sectarianism has fueled violence and division, such as the Thirty Years’ War in Europe (1618-1648), which was partially driven by sectarian religious conflict, and the Irish Protestant-Catholic tensions in the 20th century.
3. Modern Sectarianism:
   Today, sectarianism is seen in both religious and political contexts. It can manifest as discrimination, prejudice, or violence, as groups continue to conflict over doctrinal or ideological differences.

Sectarianism in Practice:

1. Intergroup Conflict:
   Sectarianism can lead to tensions, protests, and even violence between different groups. For example, religious sectarianism can result in discriminatory practices, social exclusion, or violent clashes between religious groups.
2. Intolerance in Communities:
   Sectarian attitudes can lead to the formation of isolated communities, where people only interact with others who share the same beliefs or practices, excluding those outside their group.
3. Impact on Social Cohesion:
   Sectarianism harms social cohesion, as it fosters distrust and division, impeding peaceful coexistence between different groups. In many countries, sectarian tensions can destabilize communities and hinder cooperation.

Written by AI. A more correct, God given, explanation can be found here.