Extremism is defined as the belief that an in-group's survival can never be separated from hostility toward an out-group.

• A. The belief that an in-group's survival can never be separated from hostility toward an out-group
• B. The belief that violence is always wrong
• C. The belief in universal tolerance
• D. The belief that laws are optional

Answer: (A)

Extremist thinking often ties the survival of an in-group to hostility toward an out-group, creating an us-versus-them mindset. When beliefs say the in-group's fate cannot be separated from attacking or demeaning an out-group, it justifies marginalization, discrimination, and often violence as necessary to protect the group. This rigid, zero-sum view leaves little room for nuance or peaceful coexistence, which is why it stands in stark contrast to more tolerant or lawful perspectives. The other options describe attitudes that oppose extremism: believing violence is always wrong, universal tolerance, or laws being optional—none reflect this pattern of tying group survival to hostility toward others.