Reuters: A radical on political or social terms is usually a person or group seeking to overturn the present order. Although radical often is applied to individuals who hold strong socialist or communist views, it also is applied at times to individuals who believe an existing form of government must be replaced by a more authoritarian or militaristic one. Given the term is vague and emotive, try to use more specific descriptions of the person or groups beliefs or practices.
AP: In general, avoid this description in favor of a more precise definition of an individual’s political views.
When used, it suggests that an individual believes change must be made by tearing up the roots or foundation of the present order.
Although radical often is applied to individuals who hold strong socialist or communist views, it also is applied at times to individuals who believe an existing form of government must be replaced by a more authoritarian or militaristic one.
