Some inter-faith organizations trying to figure out how to deal with the culture clash of Islam and the Western World, suggest that education of the Koran and Bible can mitigate the radical element from within. One leading thinker suggests that verses in both the Bible and Koran are used to educate against the misunderstanding and animosity. But I ask, is that really a solution?
After all, it appears that religion on both sides has caused this conflict in the first place. Of course, many Western thinkers and international diplomacy folks seem to indicate that if the radical elements of the Muslim World are not fighting the Westerners or joined in hate against the Jews they are fighting themselves in sectarian violence.
Now there are many verses, passages and quotes in any and all of the religious works that can be taken in or out of context to persuade someone through debate, argument or reason to act, respond or conduct themselves in a given way or the opposite. That is a known fact about religious text. So, without condemning the concept of using religious verse to persuade to get large groups of religious radicals to act in a certain way that pleases you; my question is this. Will it work and if it will work is right and should it be done?
Many would say certainly, use all the methods possible to stop terrorism and religious radicalism to save lives. However, if we are to use religion to control people to do our bidding, then are we any better than the terrorist leaders who use religion to do their bidding? Does the pursuit of saving lives justify the means of using religion to control in a never ending struggle of mankind, or does it make sense to try something new? Perhaps eradicate religion in the name of peace and progression of the human race.
