In “Beyond Fundamentalism,” Reza Aslan provides a compelling argument against engaging in religious wars, drawing on his expertise as a scholar of religions and his insights into the ideologies fueling militants across the Muslim world. Aslan contends that the United States, by framing the War on Terror in religious terms, is inadvertently perpetuating a conflict that cannot be won.

The book delves into the religious rhetoric surrounding contemporary conflicts, examining how the wars in the Middle East have become imbued with religious fervor, leading to devastating consequences. Aslan also explores the phenomenon of religious violence in Judaism, Christianity, and Islam, highlighting the need to address the underlying earthly grievances that drive such conflicts.

Aslan’s central thesis is that winning a religious war is impossible because engaging in one only perpetuates the cycle of violence. Instead, he argues for stripping conflicts of their religious connotations and addressing the root causes that fuel them.

Originally published as “How to Win a Cosmic War,” this updated edition features new content and analysis. Praised for its thoughtful analysis and persuasive argument, “Beyond Fundamentalism” offers a valuable perspective on countering jihadism and navigating the complex intersection of religion and politics in today’s world.