Still confused..

Submitted by Hrishi (India), Feb 27, 2011 at 00:27

Dr. Pipes: You say, "Rather, I am referring to Muslims who follow a specific interpretation of their faith." - the alternate to your definition of "Islamist" interpretation is "secular Muslim" interpretaion of Islam that would be more benign and we could then just go about our ways not being threatened by a radical religion.

Honestly that seems to be difficult to find.. Making Islam a faith that is practised in the privacy of one's home or ideally in the privacy of one's mind and adhering to the requirements of a secular democracy with its atttendant individual rights (including freedom of speech and freedom of choice for one's own children) is something that we all wish for....

Dr Pipes: I have always admired your scholarly approach but I sincerely wish one could see more evidence to share your optimism..

How can one be a good Muslim and still be open and modern - how many takers (amongst who run Islam or those who follow and can influence others) would you have by separating "Islam" from politics and social organization? What's left of Islam without its politics that would still retain its 'deep and abiding' appeal for its followers?

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