The Power of Words Vs Muslim suspicion and sensitivity
Islam, Muslim, Islamist and other terms are now “heavily” used by the media; and are often side by side to terms like: Terrorism or Radicalism and so on.
It’s true that they are sometimes used in a way that shows too much Misunderstanding, Confusion and even some really racist intentions sometimes.
Conflicts and political competition especially the conflict in the Middle East seem to be a good channel for many to pass their –religiously absorbed- political views. And in order for every one’s views to look more credible and acceptable. There are always ways to make others “beliefs” look hard to understand, Old-fashion and useless.
Using terms mentioned above or some of them is sometimes reflecting real facts. But, it doesn’t necessarily mean that bad intentions are buried beneath them. Sometimes -if not most, they are only reflecting a sad reality. Especially as we consider the fact that most of Muslim states are located in what is called the third world.
Linking terms like Islam and radicalism and Terrorism may not reflect the reality. It even may show too much misunderstanding and lack of knowledge about both Islam and Muslims; and it also is likely to create tension and more misunderstanding as they can be hurting in some ways.
On the other hand, Muslims tend to be very sensitive about such terms, even when they are used to specifically describe a certain case. And sometimes react in the wrong way. Verbally-in the best cases; or even in actions – if some have the chance to.
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My stand here is not about blaming either Muslims or those who use the sort of “specious” terms.
What I am trying to state is that most of Muslims and Arabs as well mostly in the third world need to learn to accept a systematic plan of correction; and to get disconnected with so many past accumulations that go back to the phases of imperialism. I believe also that more religious discussions should take place to help Muslims themselves understand a lot about how to deal with the changes that quickly now are happening in the world. In fact, a serge of correction and re-establishment is required for Muslims to get out of the shades of Radicalism and Terrorism in the minds of others.
On the other hand, more steps should be taken to create the right atmosphere for a dialogue that leads ton understanding Islam, Muslims and Arab mentalities and way of life as well. As though many links are attached between the eastern and western cultures; still clouds of misunderstanding and lack of open-mindedness is strongly present and seem to have a hold on the dialogues taking place.
Arabs and Muslims have been for long taught to be so sensitive towards any “criticism”. The matter that prevented any revision, and created a sense of dogmatism among them.
I believe that it’s a great chance the ones young people now are given here to learn from to past mistakes. Ones they didn’t have a hand in committing them. Rather than strongly take hold of them. For that seems not to be any help for the change to reach their homes.
If you are interested. Please give your voice here:
http://discussv5.takingitglobal.org/thread/15883
S-Kane with love
God bless you all.