Eradicating antipathetic rhetoric
May 5, 2008
terrorism is seen as a form of empowerment
The crucible for attaining recognition in the battle against extremism amidst the ranks of some secular Muslims is reaching its crescendo here in Britain. A couple of weeks ago we witnessed the mediocre launch of the Quilliam Foundation, followed a week later by the launch (re-launch) of the British Muslim for Secular Democracy [BMSD]. Both these and other similar initiatives have been plagued at the outset for their links with neo-cons and pro-war supporters and a secular agenda, leaving their credibility amongst Muslims void and non-existent.
When will the government understand that these attempts to fight radicalisation will not assist one bit at countering terrorism and radicalisation? Blindingly obvious is the inhumane and cruel foreign policies that play a great part in radicalisation. Supporting these fame and money driven phonies will only decrease any hope of reaching the thus far despondent unreachable.
Foreign policies vis-à-vis social and economical instability are undoubtedly precursors of extremism and radicalisation. Unfortunately most if not all the Muslim nations and Muslims are in these dire and horrific conditions. Social psychologists tell us that when people are confronted with situations that they possibly cannot accept they begin to react with actions completely opposite to them [psychological dissonance]; the more horrific the condition gets the more intense the reaction.
It should not be a surprise that members of contemporary radical groups have been victims of atrocities, many retaliate and denounce attempts of peaceful reformation and revival. Dr Nichole Argo presents an explanation suggesting that terrorism to some is a form of self-determination and empowerment: ‘terrorism is seen as a form of empowerment for peoples who feel dispossessed or politically oppressed, participating in terrorist activities is a way of finding empowerment in a situation where people perceive no other choice exists’.
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