Scenario #5
Extremism barometer (What is extreme?)
Aims / objectives
The aim is to reflect on the term "extremism" and to discuss what is to be classified as extreme, when and why, and at what point something is violent and dangerous.
Description of the method
The participants are shown pictures and asked to evaluate which of them represent something "extreme" from their point of view. This can be, for example, an extreme sport, an extreme weather situation, but also pictures of political extremism. Then, the participants are to discuss in groups or in pairs what is not extreme in this topic area and bring examples of this (e.g. a sport that is considered a non-extreme sport or popular sport).
They rate on a scale (barometer) of 1 to 10 or 1 to 5 how extreme they think something is. They also discuss in which areas they would classify themselves as extreme or which extreme opinions they themselves hold. Afterwards, they present these in plenary. Then, they discuss with the facilitator and the entire group at what point the extreme is dangerous and for whom. Which extreme positions, attitudes or behaviour are acceptable and where is the tipping point where participants (and society) need to say "stop“ and counteract? In this way, the question of political violence is introduced and discussed.
Overview
| Name of the method | Extremism barometer |
| Target group | Youth from 13 years |
| Duration | 1 hour 30 minutes |
| Spatial requirements | A room for a group, screen |
| Competences | Critical thinking, self-reflection, tolerance, knowledge |
| Objectives | Participants should reflect on what “extremism” is in order to better understand the term and social discourse |
| Method description | Facilitator shows pictures and asks what is extreme. Participants discuss in small groups, rate extreme positions on a scale and then discuss in plenary session (also, consider where is the tipping point to violence) |
| Social work context | Trustful relations and a safe space are important; probably easier than in school context |
| Preparation | Selection of pictures; questions need to be prepared |
| Risks | The topic is delicate and needs time and trust. If this is not guaranteed, the exercise shouldn’t be carried out |
| Concept / application | N. Mocevic; presented in workshop during the project |
| References |
See other scenarios
Working with stories 1: The Lonely Duckling
Working with stories 2: Punch or Political puppet theatre
Free associations and prejudice barometer
Deconstruction of Hate Speech
The District of Legends
Conspiracy video with youth “Le complot nouillles” (The Noodle conspiracy)
Text message to victims of hate speech
Argumentation training and countering hate speech – role play
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