Which characteristic is often associated with religious fundamentalism?

The characteristic of a commitment to traditional practices and doctrines is often associated with religious fundamentalism because fundamentalism typically emphasizes a strict adherence to specific beliefs and texts that are viewed as sacred. This perspective prioritizes the original intentions of religious texts and traditions, often resisting any changes or modern interpretations. Fundamentalists tend to view their beliefs as absolute truths that must be preserved in their original forms, which aligns with the idea of maintaining traditional practices and doctrines without deviation.

In contrast, other approaches to religion may involve flexibility in interpretation, modernization of beliefs, or interfaith dialogue, which do not align with the fundamentalist perspective. Religious fundamentalism often emerges in response to perceived threats from modernity or changes in society, prompting a retreat to established practices and a rejection of contemporary adaptations. This creates a clear distinction where a commitment to traditional values stands out as a defining feature of fundamentalist movements.