RE:democracy- american
by wadiyat naqvi on Jan 26, 2007 09:05 AM Permalink
I guess the discussion was regarding democracy in its viability in current global situation which is ridden with sectarian vilolence. I do not appreciate a rhetorical lash out against a particular religion or faith. Following your line of argument India should be the last country to accept democracy since it has a social and political tradition entrenched in social discrimination, exploitation and hierarchy!!! Also, culturally we're the most diverse nation..yet we are a fairly good representation of a functional democracy. The current issues reagarding world political situation, particularly pertaining to the islamic world needs to be tackled without the kind of ignorance, which you have reflected in your opinion. Islam does stand for universal brotherhood but thats in opposition to the cultural perspectives of social hierarchy. It is wrong to assume that Islam doesn't preach nationalism, because it certainly lays emphasis on the love for ones country of birth and origin. Apart from the ignorance regarding the teachings of islam and its prophet the problem also lies in the selective appropriation of the religion by extremist groups to suit and legitimise their own agendas, which can be politically or even perhaps economically motivated. And as a matter of fact, such kind of misappropriation is not restricted to islam alone.
It is very encouraging to read your note. Even though most people realize that its not the average muslim who is to blame for terrorism, the fundamentalists have indeed hijacked the religion. Sane voices like yourself need to speak for the majority of muslims....while at the same time legitimately defending your interests.
