ABSTRACT
This chapter provides a brief overview of the existing research approaches to the radicalization. The current wave of radical Salafi-Jihadist activities is then set within an historical continuum of resurgent militant Islam as a prelude to an examination of 'charisma' in the current context and the prerequisite conditions for the exercise of charismatic power and authority to radicalize violent extremists. The chapter examines the role played by the Internet and it explains how the Internet has strengthened the 'charismatic bond' between the leaders and followers. Cyber technologies and interactive sites have been used by charismatic preachers to inspire and develop the trusted relationships with the individuals and motivate their movement along a path from the passive activism to the militant jihadism. The decentralization of Islam associated with new information and communications technologies and organizational changes have further empowered rather than marginalized charismatic preachers.
