Abstract:
Christian fundamentalism is based on as literal an interpretation of the bible as possible. The nature and development of this interpretation is misguided because it accepts the misunderstandings and deliberate distortions of the biblical message. Those who take such a literal perspective must avoid the world of scientific knowledge and live in a past age that is often irrelevant today. Fundamentalism is ultimately dangerous because it is deceptively simple, unacceptably wrong, and morally inadequate. There are valid alternatives that avoid the literalist trap and provide a comprehensive understanding that is logically defensible, spiritually satisfying, and realistic in the modern world.