What term describes individuals who adopt extremist views independently?

The term that describes individuals who adopt extremist views independently is self-radicalization. This process occurs when a person, without direct influence from a group or organization, adopts radical beliefs and ideologies, often through personal research, study, or exposure to radical content online.

Self-radicalization emphasizes the individual's journey toward extremism, highlighting their autonomous decision-making in developing extreme beliefs. This phenomenon has become increasingly relevant in modern contexts, especially with the proliferation of the internet, which allows for wide access to extremist materials and communities.

In contrast, group radicalization involves a collective process where individuals are influenced by the beliefs and actions of others within a group. Coercive indoctrination refers to situations where an individual is forced or manipulated into adopting extremist beliefs, typically through coercion or pressure. State-sponsored extremism suggests involvement or support of extremist views by state actors, indicating a structured approach rather than individual initiative. Thus, self-radicalization distinctly captures the essence of an individual's independent journey towards adopting extremist ideologies.