I know those who defend islam have there hearts in the right place

[oberliner]

113. Thanks for the response

I do agree that we are reacting to different elements of the OP, so I will try to make sure to focus only on the points you are raising.

Of course, you are correct to point out the ridiculousness and bigotry implicit in right-wingers blaming all Muslims for these terrorist attacks. That does not, however, mean that it is unreasonable to consider the role that Islam played in these terrorist attacks rather than pretending that there is no relationship there, which some critical thinkers tend to do. One should feel free to be critical of Islam, Judaism, Christianity, Scientology, etc. without being labeled a bigot.

I think you miss the point of what I am saying about Republicanism and Islam. What I am asking you to consider is that both of these are philosophies. Just because one is labeled a religion and one is labeled a political philosophy does not mean that they ought not both be subject to the same degree of scrutiny. If it is OK for someone to look at the basic tenets of Republicanism and say these values are antithetical to my own, so should it be OK to look at the basic tenets of Islam and come to that same conclusion.

The Islamic Republic of Pakistan is the example I will provide of a democratic Islamic country. This is a country where the president and prime minister are required by law to be Muslim and whose constitution indicates that all laws must be in accordance with Islam. One can look at the religious persecution of the Ahmadis there as an example of the systematic religious-based oppression. This is a country with rampant sexism, and abuse of women and girls in massive numbers according to numerous human rights groups.

In terms of appropriate action to take regarding this terrorist attack, I think that people like Bernie Sanders are on the right track when they speak of better communication among intelligence agencies and the like. Obviously one cannot stop all terrorist attacks, but coordination among law enforcement agencies internationally could help to prevent these attacks before they occur.