Historically speaking religions become more extreme during times of uncertainty. This has happened during time of plague, war and economic crisis in the past. I just read an article about Christians and Muslims attacking each other in Africa and India. If I know one thing for certain it is fear is contagious. What can or should be done to try avoiding the extremists?
Education is our only hope. But making it avalaible is only part of the work to be done. Religion, particularly Christianity and Islam actively condemn any teachings outside of their religious books. Getting these hard core religious people to accept anything outside of their religion is the key. A worthy but difficult if not almost impossible cause.