I want to point out that I make a definite distintion between Islaam as an ideology and doctrine and Muslims as individuals.Not so difficult when you get to know some Muslims, though. Remarkably, despite Maine having a pretty low diversity I've gotten to know some very fine Muslim folks who practice their religion in ways that are as moderate and inspiring as any other.
Are there large groups if Muslims in Middle Eastern countries wanting to enact strict religious laws and destroy all I hold dear? Probably. But this is likely true of other groups as well, and considering the damage we have done in the Middle East, I can sympathize with some of the hatred (even while I don't condone it).
Islaam is remarkable. Muslims are often remarkable for the very opposite reasons. That is to be expected. Few things spur people towards some direction than the direct awareness of how terrible the alternative is.
I never denied that most Muslims are good people. I do point out that Islaam is a terrible, terrible doctrine when it comes to encouraging them to be or remain good people, and benefits from the natural instincts of people to improve their doctrines far more than random creeds do, and a whole lot more than it ever allows itself to acknowledge.
Last edited: