...I stand at the intersection of these two conceptual entities we very loosly call 'Islam' and the 'West'. We tend to conceive of a gulf existing between them, and to a significant degree in today's world that is true. But there is also an overlap, and i presently find myself dwelling in it. Those who occupy this space are decidedly more familiar with the Islamic tradition than most Westerners, and with Western societies, culture and politics than most Muslims. That is not a qualification. People in this position can be ignorant, too. But it does provide unique opportinities.
Waleed Aly
People Like Us;
How arrogance is dividing Islam and the West
Picador 2007
2 comments:
That is only when you assume "Islam" and the "West" as monoliths.
this whole Islam and west thing is really watering down a lot of what Muslims ought to be saying, many tend to compromise their beliefs for that purpose( bring all of us closer)
the trick is being compationate to those who dont know and want positive relations while sticking to your guns, and having the pride and courage during speech to bash those who openly oppress us and not interested in any peace.
Orientalism by Edward Said would be a good related read.
True, there's way too much misconceptions from both sides, Muslims & Westerners. Obviously, the author meant by those setting at the intersection Muslims who live in the West, the opportunity exists in them to clear out those misconceptions in the two sides, they can be looked at as a bridge between the two. However, Clearing out the misconceptions & presenting the true image are not a compromise!
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