What is Fringe?
When we talk about fringe, we usually refer to something that is on the periphery or edge of a larger group or society. Fringe can take many forms – from unconventional beliefs to alternative lifestyles. It is often seen as being on the outskirts of mainstream culture.
Types of Fringe
There are different types of fringe, such as:
- Political fringe: Political movements or parties that are outside of the mainstream and hold alternative or extreme views.
- Cultural fringe: Subcultures or artistic movements that challenge conventional norms and traditions.
- Religious fringe: Religious groups or sects that deviate from the teachings of mainstream religions.
Examples of Fringe
One example of a fringe group is the Flat Earth Society, which believes that the Earth is flat despite overwhelming evidence to the contrary. Another example is the Amish community, which lives a traditional, isolated lifestyle that is considered fringe in modern society.
Case Studies
One interesting case study is the rise of conspiracy theories in the digital age. With the advent of social media, fringe ideas can spread rapidly and gain followers who may otherwise not have been exposed to them. This has led to an increase in movements such as QAnon, which promotes baseless conspiracy theories.
Statistics on Fringe Movements
According to a survey by the Pew Research Center, about 9% of Americans believe that the Earth is flat. This shows that fringe beliefs are more common than we might think and can have a significant impact on society.
