Wednesday, February 21, 2007
I refer to the article in “What clash of the civilizations?” in The Straits Times, 20 February 2007 about a BBC survey of 27 countries regarding the conflict between Islam and the West.
The poll indicated that many believe the tension between Islam and the west was caused by politics instead of cultural differences. Many are also optimistic that a peaceful solution can be found. I believe that these results show a lot regarding people’s views on the current conflicts between Islam and the west.
Firstly, it shows that many people on both sides of the conflict are unsure as to the ‘rationale’ behind the entire conflict as well as the problems and difficulties both sides face. They are quick to blame the problems on political motives of the two sides, which would imply that they do not understand the political reasons behind the conflict or are doubtful of the political intentions. As such, more knowledge regarding policies should be made available to the public and both sides should reassure them about the political difficulties or objectives that they are facing. If they are unable to come up with a satisfactory answer to appease the concern of the public, then the problem could indeed lie in politics. This is a clear indication that the public is not confident in their political leaders regarding the Islam and western conflict.
Secondly, it shows that people are more willing to accept people of other cultures and civilizations, as the people are not blaming the cultural differences for the problems that are arising between the two civilizations and are very supportive of a peaceful solution. Both the Muslims as well as the non-muslims hold this view, meaning that if a coordinated effort for finding a peaceful solution were started, it would likely see fruition, since both sides are willing to set aside cultural differences for the sake of world peace. This is comforting as we are all human beings and if we were unable to cooperate, especially in this modern era, it would be embarrassing really.
Unfortunately, there is a significant minority that is pessimistic about this violence being inevitable. It seems fairly easy to agree with them, seeing as how violence has erupted all over the world in recent times and along the course of history. It seems that violence is a constant reminder of how mankind is intolerant to difference. We, however are able to recognize this and therefore can work on improving the situation. Though misunderstandings and problems are inevitable, using violence to solve them is not.
Finally, quite a majority believes the problem lies in intolerant minorities and not in the entire cultural group. This is good, as they recognize that not all Muslims for example are radical. However, if there were a mutual understanding and fairness, there would not be a reason for ‘minorities’ to be intolerant. Although some groups will always be prejudiced against other cultures, having a sort of inferior complex, they would not get support and will degenerate over time.
Blogged @ 5:24 AM
