How can an extremist operate within society?

An extremist can operate within society in various ways, which is why functioning as either an individual or as part of a group is a viable option. Individuals may engage in extremist activities independently, influenced by personal beliefs or experiences, and can utilize tools like social media to spread their ideology or recruit others. On the other hand, extremists may also find strength in numbers, collaborating with like-minded individuals in groups or organizations that share their extremist views. This dual capacity allows them to adapt their strategies depending on the social environment, either isolating themselves for covert actions or aligning with a larger movement to exert more influence.

The other options are too restrictive. The notion that extremists can only operate as individuals overlooks the collective dynamics that often enhance their influence and reach. Similarly, stating they can only function in large groups disregards the effectiveness that individual actions can have in promoting extremist views. The idea that extremists operate solely through legal organizations also fails to account for the significant underground activity that frequently occurs outside of legal bounds. Therefore, recognizing that extremism can manifest in both individual and collective forms provides a more comprehensive understanding of how these individuals and groups can navigate and impact society.