Do you fear an image or an institution?

Question

In America and Europe, the media/government/world affairs have created an image of Islam, as if to say "see this turban, this headdress, this beard, this skin, it stands for this, this and this, fear it". To what extent do you think this image corresponds to reality? For example, many people tell me that Muslims are commanded to kill infidels by their holy book (which actually, I was surprised to learn, is not in the Koran). Is Islam the CAUSE of violence, or merely the justification for it? In other words, if there were no religions in the world, wouldn't humans commit the same atrocities, except not bother tojustify them? My history teacher says "A hungry man will always kill, steal, and wreak havoc. His religion (islam?) will only affect how he chooses to justify it." What do YOU think? Thanks for all responses. :D

j'adore7: its a metaphor, I think he meant "desperate people take desperate measures" not necessarily that someone will kill someone to live, but that if a human sees his family/country being annihilated, he'll probably do something stupid. i agree that history teachers should teach facts ^^

Answer 1

Your history teacher is supposed to teach you facts and not his own interpretation of them. Please let him know this would you please.

There are today on this earth millions of people who would rather die than kill, just because you do not know them does not mean that they do not exist.

Answer 2

I think people will always be people, and many base their opinions on plain ignorance of other cultures, and religions.
You history teacher is no exception by stating that people will use religion to justify their actions.
People who are intend on doing wrong will do so no matter what.

To correct you on some of the teachings; the koran does not teach that violence is to be avoided, it teaches that violence in defense of the faith, and that those who do join the fight to further Islam are more likely to enter Paradise.
On the other hand it also teaches justice, charity, mercy and tolerance.

Answer 3

Well go back in history and look at all the groups of people who commited acts of violence in the name of nothing but themselves. Start with the pagans and go from there. Your teacher is correct.

Answer 4

I think to portray a group of people as something to fear based on apperances is both shocking and outrageous.This is political propoganda and another form of government control of the west.It's all part of the cause and effect agenda.I am leaning towards the views of your history teacher.