reply to post by Conspiriology
First of all I would say that I recognise that the convert’s opinion is possibly unique in that they have first hand experiences of the workings of
Islamic fundamentalists and as such should be considered and understood.
Yes, we have meddled in their affairs far too much, to further agenda's of an elite whose primary concerns are clouded in spin and double talk.
But the conflict is much more deep rooted and reaches back centuries and lies in tribal rivalries, political manoeuvring and religious differences.
But that is no earth shattering revelation to anyone here and has been discussed at length here on ATS.
That we have been lied to and misled by both of our respective governments is reprehensible.
My personal opinion is that we must not come out of Afghanistan until a permanent, workable solution is reached which offers Afghanistan a workable
framework to move forward.
I really think we lost an opportunity when the Afghan's opposed the appointment of Paddy Ashdown as UN Special Envoy.
www.abovepolitics.com...'
Iraq is another matter and it'll take greater minds than mine to even begin to unravel root causes and to implement workable solutions.
However, I do know that even though we were misled, would it have moral to allow Saddam Hussein to stay in power?
Again, for other threads I think.
I mention these facts as I think both issues are inextricably linked to the continued rise in Islamic fundamentalism and any subsequent increase in
perceived Christian "extremism".
Religion has always been a factor in US politics, at least that is the generally accepted opinion in the UK.
It seems that the Christian "right" are increasingly vocal in expressing their opinions and are seen as a voting bloc akin to Blacks, Women, etc.
As such they can use their voting power to directly influence Presidential policy.
Any increase in their numbers, or their "extremism" therefore increases their influence.
Could we see a radicalisation on abortion issues and closer ties between the state and religious bodies?
And what effect would that have on Foreign Affairs?
In the UK religious beliefs are increasingly a personal issue and public disclosures by eminent people is actively discouraged.
In deed Tony Blair was advised NOT to disclose his religious beliefs and to actively play them down.
There seems to be increasing concern in Britain about the activities, beliefs and influence of a minority of home-grown Muslim extremists who some
perceive to be undermining the very fabric of British society.
This too continues to be discussed at length on ATS and is for other threads; however, the reaction to it manifests itself as an increase in National
Pride and Heritage, something that some think has been missing in British society for too long.
There is no increase in church numbers and Christian "extremists" quoting Scripture etc.
I suppose an important step to understanding is defining exactly what a Christian “extremist” is.
Some Christians are perceived as "Happy Clappy" Liberals.
Some believe in the literal interpretation of The Bible.
(Creationists are pretty much viewed as being cranks here in the UK by the vast majority of the population).
I suspect my definition of a Christian "extremist" will differ immensely to that of most US members here on ATS.
As such it is difficult for someone like me to gauge the influence of Christians "extremists".
