Neither

Submitted by J.S. (Canada), Jan 23, 2006 at 15:40

I have read quite a few comments which are suggesting that the pope claimed to be dictating to Islam what Islam should do. But, frankly (unless I'm missing something here) I neither see nor hear this.

Basically (from what I undserstand), the pope claims that Islam is "fundamentalist" in a profound way and basic precepts can't be altered (or at least, can't be altered in a "positive" or "liberal" direction). I tend to agree with the pope's analysis.

Having said that, I would hardly assert that I have therefore dictated to Islam what their religion needs to practice. It's simply a statement of fact...Islam is conservative and contains certain self-preservation mechanisms (not found in the other monotheistic religions) which tends toward regression, not "progression" (when viewed by Western standards -- ie., women's rights, tolerance of homos, etc.)

And, I would argue that this is an important issue -- whether or not Islam is capable of "reform" is of dire interest to the West (again, I AM NOT claiming that I have decided that Islam MUST reform or else.) It's simply to ask the question -- CAN Islam reform? I don't think so. I also believe that the adherents of Islam are fundamentally unwilling to "reform." Not only will Islam not reform, but, they have no desire to do so.

BTW, I am (once again) struck by the singular lack of morality as expressed by the Islamists...CAIR people in particular...Does not one note how said individuals must check out the credentials of innocent victim X -- determine whether or not innocent victim X should be supported or not? -- all of this contingent on the person's race, ethnicity, beliefs, etc. (It's not based on a universal principle of "sanctity of human life" but something else). This illustrates the Islamists adherence to a "prudential morality" -- that is, do that which will benefit you, avoid that which will not..(I suspect this sums up Islam).

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