Michael,
Nice post and I agree with most of what you said. Let me make a few comments.
The example of people acting violently in the name of religion does not end with the few examples that I gave you. How about all the American Indians who were killed in the name of Christianity? How about the violent action of IRA in the name of Catholicism? Examples go on and on.
Re <<Muslims need to openly examine why it is that so many of their followers are going on crusades against humanity, and willing to die in order to kill innocent women and children. >>
Perhaps that is true. But to me, that is a little like saying, "black people need to examine why it is that so many of the people of their color are committing crime against humanity".
Is the problem the color of skin, or the conditions that all the people of that skin are under?
Is the problem religion, or the conditions as to all the people of that religion are under?
I am not excusing any fanatic action let alone the atrocities committed by Bin laden’s and its fellow murderers thugs. I am saying that under certain conditions, the fanatical element of any society, whether it is religious or else, is tolerated and allowed to blossom.
Re <<is a belief that critical examination of the Quran is really not allowed>>
Unfortunately in most instances that is true, and that is the reason I have chosen to not follow any organized religion. Criticizing the holy book, whether it is Koran, Bible or Torah is not allowed.
Good night,
Mani |
