This is with reference to the article “Feeding the terrorist beast” (Dec. 6) by Gwynne Dyer. It is a well-written article, which assessed the phenomenon of global terrorism very objectively. Every sane writer or analyst has been expressing similar views regarding the menace of terrorism that is fast engulfing the world particularly the Muslim countries. Instead of blaming Muslims for their radical thoughts, the world powers should try to understand the underlying factors that give way to radicalization.
It is very easy to blame Islam for its concept of jihad. The truth is that most of the western thinkers who hold the very concept responsible for the prevailing violent streak among some Muslims have actually never read Qur’an or Islam thoroughly. If somebody has any doubt over this claim, he/she should try to do a research on the likes of Christopher Hitchens, Sam Harris and Richard Dawkins.
They openly claim to have never studied Islam but are the harshest critics of Islam and Muslims. This approach, to say the least, is unfair. One does not have the right to comment on even an individual without properly knowing that person. So, how could these so-called intellectuals spit venom against an entire nation without properly studying their faith and belief system? Unfortunately, the mainstream western media in a bid to boost the Television Rating Point (TRP) give them ample airtime to form a wrong opinion about Muslims and Islam in the West.
The resentment in the Muslim world is not unwarranted. The creation of Israel, Sykes-Picot Agreement, invasions of Afghanistan and Iraq, drone attacks targeting civilians in Yemen and Pakistan, the US vetoes in favor of Israel etc. are all the reasons for Muslims to feel angry.
Despite all this injustices, the majority of Muslims do not support the groups perpetrating crimes against humanity. Instead of blaming Muslims for the current turmoil, the powers that be should try to implement fair policies toward the Muslim world and stop interfering in the affairs of the Muslim countries. The West should also try not to impose its concepts of freedom and democracy on us. We are a different people with different values of our own. The policy of “one size fits all” should be done away with, as it will only create more conflicts. — Anum J., By e-mail
Biased approach toward Muslims
