What does one say to the events in Libya, to the events in Paris, to the events in our country? Secularism as a whole is necessary to ensure the separation of church and state. We see what happens in our own country when the state tries to infringe upon common rights. The Republicans are adamantly trying to control women’s reproductive rights and are completely biased on this issue. Sandra Fluke had been called a slut by Republican icon and radio show host Rush Limbaugh because she supported women having access to reproductive healthcare and that insurance companies should cover the cost of abortion pills in an effort to make this necessity available to all women. Imagine a graduate student from Georgetown University demeaned and debased in this way but it is happening here. How is this relevant to the issue? If we problematize this further you will come to know that many of these conservative ideologies come from a very narrow, prismatic, myopic, and fundamentalist perceptions inspired by a piece of literature known as the bible. Apart from all the crusades that have been fought over the basis of dogma, apart from the Spanish Inquisition, and apart from slavery which once was upheld by this book, can we afford to live in a non-secular society? I think not. I don’t have faith in a society whose values are derived from a primitive point of view. An atheist can be pro-life without any religious values whatsoever. Common sense would dictate that a woman needs to be as protected as the life of a fetus. So long as religious values always tend to intertwine within our culture I doubt we can allow non-secular governance to take over. It is frankly too dangerous. Look at our former president who thought that God was talking to him and how he took us into a fictitious war to satisfy our pro-theocratic friends. I would rather play the lotto. I have better odds. …Angel Pomales
I certainly understand the reasoning behind the enraged muslims so i can say that i understand their view but also disagree with their actions as well as who they direct their blame to. I understand their reasoning for being enraged. For those who dont know, it is blasphemy and against the muslim religion to portray their holy g*d, Muhammed, in any physical way, shape, or form. Though we are not all muslim we should all understand in prospect to our own religion whether it be judaism, Catholicism, or even atheism. Each of us has our own unique practices that should be fairly respected by others so for some, attacking the muslim religion and so disgracefully is mostly seen as a hate crime. Thus, I understand Libya's reasoning for enragement. I do however disagree with both their response as well as who they blame. First, the US ambassador did not post nor relate to the video in any way so their should have been no reason to murder an innocent man. Even so, he represents a country based of commandments and rights. One being "Freedom of Speech" and all its forms which leads to my next point of blame. Libya blames our government and expects an apology from our president for what one American individual has done. America stands under its values firmly and justly. Though it may be seen as a cruel hate crime, it is NOT illegal to freely and publicly state or show ones opinion. Yes, it is frowned upon and immoral to do this but not illegal. Having said that I can understand why the Libyans are enraged at such a humiliating and disrespectful video but I disagree with their response to the situation.
Berlisa Knowles said.... It' sad that respect for another is not being taught around the world and in every religion practice. Some people should have the freedom to speak if they can't be mindful of others beliefs. It should be a law in place to provent people for saying disrespectful things. We also need to teach self-control and that we can not take matters in our own hands. I don't know if those who are in other country really understand that it's wrong to kill because most of their lives they been taught that this is the way to get justice. This is not suppose to happen in any religious group. I always thought that religon was about peace and love, murder is forbiden. If this is happening amoung people who say that they know God, I'm afraid to meet the people who don't think God exist.
To Allen Ayzen: Just wanted to correct you on one point on Islam, Muslims DO NOT worship Prophet Muhammad( S.a.a.w) as a god, nor take him to have any divine features. He was just a man. A Prophet just like all the other Prophets mentioned in the Bible...
I understand that this movie was offensive to the muslims because the movie portrayed prophet Mohammed in a completely different way and they felt that it wasn't necessary to portray him the way they did. The muslims have a really bad reputation in America so I believe that Americans feel like they have can shame the muslims but that's just going to increase the conflict between the two countries. I believe that the muslims have every right to be mad but the way they handled it was foolish; they attacked U.S embassies worldwide, protested on the streets and made such a big deal out of it. That's not how they can get their problems resolved and frankly I think they embarrassed themselves by doing acting like that.
I’m not in favor of insulting ones beliefs but the Muslim’s reaction to this video isn’t doing nothing but fueling the flames and giving their nation a bad reputation. I feel the Libya attacks towards America were planned. One Youtube video should not represent one nation (America). I don’t understand how they could chant anti-American slogans and burn American flags when America as a whole was not responsible for this video. If one Youtube video could spark this reaction imagine if there was a movie. I believe they’re trying to hide something or simply just trying to make an excuse to cover up something that has been escalating amongst the Muslim community. The whole situation could’ve been handled in a more peaceful way without killing innocent people. - Ashantis Smith
seems like these problems will never end unless science will prove something that one can actually believe. and videos like this just increase the problem, rather than solving it. regarding the post, that muslims react by killing people is wrong. they can protest, or say, burn bible, or do something similar, but in my opinion, they don't want to play these games like protesting (which they do and none of the goverments react) and decide to go their own way, which is killing, attacking etc. surely, the religion itself denies killing a person and this is also an argument against them. the only thing that is not clear for me, do these people who post these videos and burn korans take any responsibility for their actions? are they punished somehow? or on the contrary, their goverments and nations support them? anyways, people have the right to live and no one can take this right because of offence of their religion.
People all around the world need to realize that the United States is a country where its people are allowed to share their feelings freely as long as they are abiding by the law. In the United States itself, there may sometimes be conflict between differing religious views, even though everyone recognizes that there is freedom of speech. The real problem to the religious uproars lies within the people who are closed minded about others beliefs. If everyone just accepted that other people do not have the same belief as others, these events would dissipate. One can always have their belief and can choose to change it, but it is important to be open-minded about other views. A Christian who purposely causes tension with a different group of people is not aware that God is love, and there is no love in offending another religious view. Now, from a Muslim view, I know nothing to judge upon. What I do know is that the actions these people are taking are wrong and they shouldn’t be expressing their discontent about a film by killing and attacking the US Embassy.
This film was blasphemy from beginning to end. One American, one specific Christian thought it would be funny to create a mediocre film insulting the Muslim faith. To fully comprehend why this one man would do this kind of act is beyond me or any American for that matter. In so many ways,this issue can be considered ridiculous yet important enough to be noticed. For one, can you really give the film maker credit for practicing the first amendment? Or it doesn't even apply because he went about it the wrong way?I will admit, it is highly disrespectful to portray Muhammad in any shape or form. I can give understanding why the Muslims got upset as they did. Now, it was ludicrous how they went about it. Violence is never the answer to solving a problem. They burned American Flags, chanted anti-American chants, took lives, and killed people of the US embassy. It's okay to feel offended but resorting to take lives over it is absolutely absurd. Sadly,these kinds of issues whether its towards the Muslims or any culture for that matter will never end. These kinds of things will always arise and this outburst is no different. Throughout the Muslim's anger, I can't help but feel they were ignorant to an extent. They are angry at the US for this film, but they don't seem to understand that it was ONE man's action NOT American as a whole. So in many ways it is unfair that Muslims feel hatred toward Americans and Americans see them as violent. This one video should not determine what kind of country we represent.
The controversy that is rising in Libya due to this mediocre video that was released by this Coptic Christian individual is pretty much uncalled for from my understanding. Honestly, I think they are stupid for taking a video like that straight to the head especially if it’s done by one amateur. I can understand if that video may have hurt their feelings but the rage they seem to show after viewing the film exposes to me the anger they already have had hidden for a while against the U.S.. So, for them to have the decency to blame Americans as a whole for a single bored man action really is confusing. Especially when the United States has helped them on different occasions and this is how you repay them. Yes, it is fine to get offended by something that comes across as disrespectful towards your religious values but attacking many innocent people and killing those people in the U.S. Embassy instead of attacking that one person shows that they aren’t getting straight to the point here. This makes them so oblivious at this point and I can’t help but not feel sorry for them. They went on about this whole situation in an immoral fashion; so they have nothing but their selves to blame. They just need to take a breather and relax because right now they are given Muslims a bad name. (Now what I said can cause controversy because I can’t classify a group of Muslims for every Muslim… Same goes to them fundamentalist that are blaming Americans for an ignorant man action.)
I believe that the film was completely irresponsible; there are so many things going on in the Muslim community and they are going through many changes, they are adapting to a new government and until now supported the change. I don’t think it was wise to make a film that attacks the Muslims believe. I do agree that we all have a right for the freedom of speech but there are some times that it better for people to keep their mouth shut. Religion is a hot topic and most of the times the people that attack another religion are just trying to “show-off” their own religion. In the case of the Christian who funded the film, he had the attack in mind, it was clearly planned to piss off the Muslims. He knew fully that it was going to cause Muslims to react the way they did. He was foolish to do such a thing but the Muslims that fed into it so well are even more foolish for giving him what he wanted. Killing people in the embassy was unnecessary; they had nothing to do with the film itself. Religions often disrespect each other because they believe that their own religion is better than the next, and that is not true at all. Religion is much like opinions, we all have them. I am disappointed with the Christian who paid for the film. It is like he is asking to keep the world at war, he is sentencing many men, women and children to death by attacking the Muslims the way he did with his stupid film. From the outside you can see that all the religions pretty much stand for the same thing, they all love “God” they want to do what is right by God. Who cares what religion you are from? Why does it matter what religion your neighbor is in? How does it affect you to see someone else happy with their cultural beliefs? As long as no one is hurt, shouldn’t the world be happy? Why does one need to be Christian, Catholic, Muslim, and Atheist? What’s it to you? Do you go to a better heaven simply because you attacked another person? No. None of this matter. All religions tell you it’s bad to kill; it’s bad to feel anger and to not forgive; it’s bad to cheat or steal... People are simply contradicting their OWN beliefs when they attack another person for believing in whatever they believe in. Attacking people is not part of religion, is part of human stupidity. It’s a path that we are taking for self-destruction and world war. I say its time we learn how to coexist and respect each other in every way possible.
In a certain way, I understand Muslims people anger. What I do not understand is why they have to react that way. Having protests and killing people is not going to change the point of view of the one who made the video: It was just a video. The only thing it may do is to prove that what Christian view about them is true. Both religions need to learn how to respect each other because by killing or judging people, they are not going to get anywhere. We can beleive in whatever we want to beleive, but first we have to learn how to respect each other.
We all come from different types of religions and beliefs.The United stated is a country where freedom of speech takes a big role ,even tho there's always that person who always takes advantage and don't know how to really express them self in the correct way . I think yes they insulted in a very disrespectful way the Muslims ,but the way they reacted to this video was completely foolish and just made things worse ,killing someone is not the solution ,That just give them a bad reputation when they could have solve this in a different way .They should not be blaming the United States I think religion is all about peace .Things like this should not be acceptable .
When it comes specifically to the controversy surrounding the film, Innocence of Muslims, I think that while the film is horrifically made and obviously courting controversy, that that is no justification for the violence that has resulted from this films’ release. While I do not agree with the film’s message at all, I do have to respect the fact that the filmmaker has as much right to state his beliefs as I do. My freedom of speech allows me to criticize the filmmaker as much as it allows him to make such a bigoted film in the first place, and that is something that I think should always be the case. Neither of us would like it if our beliefs were suppressed, as they would be if we lived in a theocracy. My appreciation for this type of dialogue that we are allowed to have in this country is one of the main reasons why I believe there should be freedom of speech as we have it now, with no modifications as a result of this controversy and others, such as the Chick-Fil-A controversy. As long as no one used violence to state their point and no one gets hurt, I really believe that we should allow everyone to speak their mind, as long as they accept the consequences, which would ideally be only controversy, but no physical violence. If everyone worldwide were encouraged to be respectful of everyone else’s right to state their claims as well as the right to disagree, we would live in a unified society where religious and political dialogues could happen without the looming threat of violence. Following this train of thought, I definitely think that the government should remain neutral on all types of religious matters, as long as no one is hurting anyone or causing distress or oppressing women and other minorities due to “religious reasons.” For example, I believe in allowing complete freedom to practicing aspects of one’s culture, but I wouldn’t be able to stomach the thought that there could possibly be women and girl children having their genitals mutilated due to some twisted (in my opinion, no offence meant) cultural practices. Similarly, when the government feels like they have to uphold the morals specified by religious texts, it leads to a society where people are oppressed and misogyny and homophobia are so ingrained as to not even be debatable in a public forum. When I speak of a country like this, an example could be the Dominican Republic, the country I was born and partly raised in. This is a society where you could call a man a “faggot” and have no one condemn you publically, where slut-shaming is something that happens a matter of course. Recently there was some controversy where a young pregnant woman who was dying of cancer couldn’t have an abortion performed in time to have the lifesaving chemotherapy, because abortion was seen as a “sin” in everyone’s eyes. But I digress. I want to close this off by saying that although I understand religious anger, I like living in a society where this type of open debate can be had without a threat of violence or government interventions on your right to free speech, no matter how ignorant or inflammatory that speech may be. I also believe that secularism should be the default in government because I am not comfortable with trying to enforce one’s morals on others.
Freedom of speech has many different meanings to different people in different countries or regions. In the U.S., for example, we let anyone say pretty much anything they want to say. Whether it’s offensive or not, everyone has the right to their own ideologies. Now, punishing someone for speaking their mind on their ideologies is blasphemy and “has been used as a weapon of coercion by the religious status quo for centuries”. In the Middle East, however, there is no “freedom of speech”. “Freedom of speech” is conditional upon the message and people will face consequences by the government and/or their religious leaders. Which brings up the case that “the religious aspects of the political system or the political aspects of the religious system.”
Freedom of speech has many different meanings to different people in different countries or regions. In the U.S., for example, we let anyone say pretty much anything they want to say. Whether it’s offensive or not, everyone has the right to their own ideologies. Now, punishing someone for speaking their mind on their ideologies is blasphemy and “has been used as a weapon of coercion by the religious status quo for centuries”. In the Middle East, however, there is no “freedom of speech”. “Freedom of speech” is conditional upon the message and people will face consequences by the government and/or their religious leaders. Which brings up the case that “the religious aspects of the political system or the political aspects of the religious system.”
(Name: Krizia Santana)...My opinion is that everyone has freedom of speech and freedom of religion so they are entitled to say and to believe in what they wish. Although just because the Muslims were truely offended by the film ( they have all the right to be) it doesn't mean that they should result to the means of killing other human beings. There are other ways to resolve conflicts besides resulting to violence. In the end. Violence doesn't do you any justice, it just makes you seem more like the vulgar one. The film was offensive and wrong because it did target the Muslims and ridiculed them but discrimination happens all the time whether it be with Muslims or other cultures. Honestly they both deserve a penalty because of you view all the events thy have occurred ever since this scandal you would agree that they are both in the wrong. I think that secularism would be beneficial to have because it gives us a sense of freedom from being tied down or having to bite your tongue, after all no one is a slave anymore we yearn freedom. .....by Krizia Santana
if I am correct, secularism is close to the separation of state and church. as much as we would want to believe, this is not the case in the united states. “in god we trust” is engraved on every coin and printed on every dollar bill that circulates our land. guilt by association is the worst fallacy when it comes to politics and religion. the actions of a few produce consequences for the whole community. when one person or a small group (a) “pokes” at what is considered sacred to another group (b), possibly because (a) thinks that he has the right of free speech and he wants to voice his opinion and its met with retaliation from (b). the retaliation is just fuel to the fire, because now (a) points out that (b) is revolting. the feud continues to escalate in a vicious cycle. there is a fine line between freedom of speech and bigotry. the right to exercise your freedom of speech ends when you violate another person’s rights, and if I recall correctly, the freedom of religion is alongside the freedom of speech on the first amendment of the united states’ constitution.
All this has been taking out of proportion. It was a very simple problem but when it became political , thats when all hell broke loose. The conflict between is nothing new and due to that fact i personal do believe in God but do not follow a particular religion because i just think that it's a monopoly to control people's lives. Now getting to the main point. Every man is entitled to his freedom of speech especially in a country that promotes it. Muslims around the should respect it. But i do believe that despite the words says free, one still has restrictions as per what they can or can't do or say. Therefore, this is to say that there is a boundary one should not cross. But with that been said, if it' s been crossed by fools who try to ignite a conflict, then its the opposition who needs to asses who they dealing with and handle situation a lot more better, rather that killing innocent people who has no connection to the problem. It' s sad to say but we human beings are still animals.
Freedom of speech is such an fundamental amendment to this century, without freedom of speech we might as well walk around with our mouths sown and let the governors, presidents, church’s, house representatives, pastors, anyone whom society views as “authority” lead us through our lives with no if’s and or butts from our side. The law is harsh but the law is law, is that the world you want to live in? I certainly could not live in such a place where woman are used as maids, cooks, rags, and personal pleasure toys. I believe in using the brain given to me by whatever higher power guides this universe. I would rather die for my right as a woman, and human being, than give into oppression of religion and authority. Fighting till my death to prove that woman have equal right to education, work, entertainment, food, as any other male on this planet. I for one as a Computer & Electrical Engineer major am in a vastly male oriented field, and I fight the oppression of the males view of a delicate woman, for I am quite the opposite aggressive strong minded individual with her eyes on the prize. And as Professor Triff stated we must preserve the right of our enemies, for if they have neither do we. We may agree to disagree, but you have the right o your opinion. Your brain, and thought process is different from every person you pass by in the universe, sure many may have the same views but no one thinks the exact same thoughts, in the same combinations. Suzy and Hanna may like mayo but Suzy loves the combination of mayo and mustard and Hanna on the other hand enjoys mayo and ketchup. I also agree that the point of those political cartoonist and directors of films or even authors is to get a reaction from their audience, the creator or the film accomplished his mission by proving his point about Muslims. I believe it is weak to rather decapitate your enemy than to face them like a man, and prove your beliefs and morals against theirs. I rather agree with open minded secularism,with out tension and dis-agreement the truth shall never unfold, the reality of the situation remains hidden until provoked.
20 comments:
What does one say to the events in Libya, to the events in Paris, to the events in our country? Secularism as a whole is necessary to ensure the separation of church and state. We see what happens in our own country when the state tries to infringe upon common rights. The Republicans are adamantly trying to control women’s reproductive rights and are completely biased on this issue. Sandra Fluke had been called a slut by Republican icon and radio show host Rush Limbaugh because she supported women having access to reproductive healthcare and that insurance companies should cover the cost of abortion pills in an effort to make this necessity available to all women. Imagine a graduate student from Georgetown University demeaned and debased in this way but it is happening here.
How is this relevant to the issue? If we problematize this further you will come to know that many of these conservative ideologies come from a very narrow, prismatic, myopic, and fundamentalist perceptions inspired by a piece of literature known as the bible. Apart from all the crusades that have been fought over the basis of dogma, apart from the Spanish Inquisition, and apart from slavery which once was upheld by this book, can we afford to live in a non-secular society? I think not. I don’t have faith in a society whose values are derived from a primitive point of view. An atheist can be pro-life without any religious values whatsoever. Common sense would dictate that a woman needs to be as protected as the life of a fetus. So long as religious values always tend to intertwine within our culture I doubt we can allow non-secular governance to take over. It is frankly too dangerous. Look at our former president who thought that God was talking to him and how he took us into a fictitious war to satisfy our pro-theocratic friends. I would rather play the lotto. I have better odds. …Angel Pomales
I certainly understand the reasoning behind the enraged muslims so i can say that i understand their view but also disagree with their actions as well as who they direct their blame to. I understand their reasoning for being enraged. For those who dont know, it is blasphemy and against the muslim religion to portray their holy g*d, Muhammed, in any physical way, shape, or form. Though we are not all muslim we should all understand in prospect to our own religion whether it be judaism, Catholicism, or even atheism. Each of us has our own unique practices that should be fairly respected by others so for some, attacking the muslim religion and so disgracefully is mostly seen as a hate crime. Thus, I understand Libya's reasoning for enragement. I do however disagree with both their response as well as who they blame. First, the US ambassador did not post nor relate to the video in any way so their should have been no reason to murder an innocent man. Even so, he represents a country based of commandments and rights. One being "Freedom of Speech" and all its forms which leads to my next point of blame. Libya blames our government and expects an apology from our president for what one American individual has done. America stands under its values firmly and justly. Though it may be seen as a cruel hate crime, it is NOT illegal to freely and publicly state or show ones opinion. Yes, it is frowned upon and immoral to do this but not illegal. Having said that I can understand why the Libyans are enraged at such a humiliating and disrespectful video but I disagree with their response to the situation.
Berlisa Knowles said....
It' sad that respect for another is not being taught around the world and in every religion practice. Some people should have the freedom to speak if they can't be mindful of others beliefs. It should be a law in place to provent people for saying disrespectful things. We also need to teach self-control and that we can not take matters in our own hands. I don't know if those who are in other country really understand that it's wrong to kill because most of their lives they been taught that this is the way to get justice. This is not suppose to happen in any religious group. I always thought that religon was about peace and love, murder is forbiden. If this is happening amoung people who say that they know God, I'm afraid to meet the people who don't think God exist.
To Allen Ayzen: Just wanted to correct you on one point on Islam, Muslims DO NOT worship Prophet Muhammad( S.a.a.w) as a god, nor take him to have any divine features. He was just a man. A Prophet just like all the other Prophets mentioned in the Bible...
I understand that this movie was offensive to the muslims because the movie portrayed prophet Mohammed in a completely different way and they felt that it wasn't necessary to portray him the way they did. The muslims have a really bad reputation in America so I believe that Americans feel like they have can shame the muslims but that's just going to increase the conflict between the two countries. I believe that the muslims have every right to be mad but the way they handled it was foolish; they attacked U.S embassies worldwide, protested on the streets and made such a big deal out of it. That's not how they can get their problems resolved and frankly I think they embarrassed themselves by doing acting like that.
I’m not in favor of insulting ones beliefs but the Muslim’s reaction to this video isn’t doing nothing but fueling the flames and giving their nation a bad reputation. I feel the Libya attacks towards America were planned. One Youtube video should not represent one nation (America). I don’t understand how they could chant anti-American slogans and burn American flags when America as a whole was not responsible for this video. If one Youtube video could spark this reaction imagine if there was a movie. I believe they’re trying to hide something or simply just trying to make an excuse to cover up something that has been escalating amongst the Muslim community. The whole situation could’ve been handled in a more peaceful way without killing innocent people. - Ashantis Smith
seems like these problems will never end unless science will prove something that one can actually believe. and videos like this just increase the problem, rather than solving it. regarding the post, that muslims react by killing people is wrong. they can protest, or say, burn bible, or do something similar, but in my opinion, they don't want to play these games like protesting (which they do and none of the goverments react) and decide to go their own way, which is killing, attacking etc. surely, the religion itself denies killing a person and this is also an argument against them. the only thing that is not clear for me, do these people who post these videos and burn korans take any responsibility for their actions? are they punished somehow? or on the contrary, their goverments and nations support them? anyways, people have the right to live and no one can take this right because of offence of their religion.
People all around the world need to realize that the United States is a country where its people are allowed to share their feelings freely as long as they are abiding by the law. In the United States itself, there may sometimes be conflict between differing religious views, even though everyone recognizes that there is freedom of speech. The real problem to the religious uproars lies within the people who are closed minded about others beliefs. If everyone just accepted that other people do not have the same belief as others, these events would dissipate. One can always have their belief and can choose to change it, but it is important to be open-minded about other views. A Christian who purposely causes tension with a different group of people is not aware that God is love, and there is no love in offending another religious view. Now, from a Muslim view, I know nothing to judge upon. What I do know is that the actions these people are taking are wrong and they shouldn’t be expressing their discontent about a film by killing and attacking the US Embassy.
This film was blasphemy from beginning to end. One American, one specific Christian thought it would be funny to create a mediocre film insulting the Muslim faith. To fully comprehend why this one man would do this kind of act is beyond me or any American for that matter. In so many ways,this issue can be considered ridiculous yet important enough to be noticed. For one, can you really give the film maker credit for practicing the first amendment? Or it doesn't even apply because he went about it the wrong way?I will admit, it is highly disrespectful to portray Muhammad in any shape or form. I can give understanding why the Muslims got upset as they did. Now, it was ludicrous how they went about it. Violence is never the answer to solving a problem. They burned American Flags, chanted anti-American chants, took lives, and killed people of the US embassy. It's okay to feel offended but resorting to take lives over it is absolutely absurd. Sadly,these kinds of issues whether its towards the Muslims or any culture for that matter will never end. These kinds of things will always arise and this outburst is no different. Throughout the Muslim's anger, I can't help but feel they were ignorant to an extent. They are angry at the US for this film, but they don't seem to understand that it was ONE man's action NOT American as a whole. So in many ways it is unfair that Muslims feel hatred toward Americans and Americans see them as violent. This one video should not determine what kind of country we represent.
The controversy that is rising in Libya due to this mediocre video that was released by this Coptic Christian individual is pretty much uncalled for from my understanding. Honestly, I think they are stupid for taking a video like that straight to the head especially if it’s done by one amateur. I can understand if that video may have hurt their feelings but the rage they seem to show after viewing the film exposes to me the anger they already have had hidden for a while against the U.S.. So, for them to have the decency to blame Americans as a whole for a single bored man action really is confusing. Especially when the United States has helped them on different occasions and this is how you repay them. Yes, it is fine to get offended by something that comes across as disrespectful towards your religious values but attacking many innocent people and killing those people in the U.S. Embassy instead of attacking that one person shows that they aren’t getting straight to the point here.
This makes them so oblivious at this point and I can’t help but not feel sorry for them. They went on about this whole situation in an immoral fashion; so they have nothing but their selves to blame. They just need to take a breather and relax because right now they are given Muslims a bad name. (Now what I said can cause controversy because I can’t classify a group of Muslims for every Muslim… Same goes to them fundamentalist that are blaming Americans for an ignorant man action.)
Susette Martinez said...
I believe that the film was completely irresponsible; there are so many things going on in the Muslim community and they are going through many changes, they are adapting to a new government and until now supported the change. I don’t think it was wise to make a film that attacks the Muslims believe. I do agree that we all have a right for the freedom of speech but there are some times that it better for people to keep their mouth shut. Religion is a hot topic and most of the times the people that attack another religion are just trying to “show-off” their own religion. In the case of the Christian who funded the film, he had the attack in mind, it was clearly planned to piss off the Muslims. He knew fully that it was going to cause Muslims to react the way they did. He was foolish to do such a thing but the Muslims that fed into it so well are even more foolish for giving him what he wanted. Killing people in the embassy was unnecessary; they had nothing to do with the film itself. Religions often disrespect each other because they believe that their own religion is better than the next, and that is not true at all. Religion is much like opinions, we all have them. I am disappointed with the Christian who paid for the film. It is like he is asking to keep the world at war, he is sentencing many men, women and children to death by attacking the Muslims the way he did with his stupid film. From the outside you can see that all the religions pretty much stand for the same thing, they all love “God” they want to do what is right by God. Who cares what religion you are from? Why does it matter what religion your neighbor is in? How does it affect you to see someone else happy with their cultural beliefs? As long as no one is hurt, shouldn’t the world be happy? Why does one need to be Christian, Catholic, Muslim, and Atheist? What’s it to you? Do you go to a better heaven simply because you attacked another person? No. None of this matter. All religions tell you it’s bad to kill; it’s bad to feel anger and to not forgive; it’s bad to cheat or steal... People are simply contradicting their OWN beliefs when they attack another person for believing in whatever they believe in. Attacking people is not part of religion, is part of human stupidity. It’s a path that we are taking for self-destruction and world war. I say its time we learn how to coexist and respect each other in every way possible.
In a certain way, I understand Muslims people anger. What I do not understand is why they have to react that way. Having protests and killing people is not going to change the point of view of the one who made the video: It was just a video. The only thing it may do is to prove that what Christian view about them is true. Both religions need to learn how to respect each other because by killing or judging people, they are not going to get anywhere. We can beleive in whatever we want to beleive, but first we have to learn how to respect each other.
We all come from different types of religions and beliefs.The United stated is a country where freedom of speech takes a big role ,even tho there's always that person who always takes advantage and don't know how to really express them self in the correct way . I think yes they insulted in a very disrespectful way the Muslims ,but the way they reacted to this video was completely foolish and just made things worse ,killing someone is not the solution ,That just give them a bad reputation when they could have solve this in a different way .They should not be blaming the United States I think religion is all about peace .Things like this should not be acceptable .
When it comes specifically to the controversy surrounding the film, Innocence of Muslims, I think that while the film is horrifically made and obviously courting controversy, that that is no justification for the violence that has resulted from this films’ release. While I do not agree with the film’s message at all, I do have to respect the fact that the filmmaker has as much right to state his beliefs as I do. My freedom of speech allows me to criticize the filmmaker as much as it allows him to make such a bigoted film in the first place, and that is something that I think should always be the case. Neither of us would like it if our beliefs were suppressed, as they would be if we lived in a theocracy.
My appreciation for this type of dialogue that we are allowed to have in this country is one of the main reasons why I believe there should be freedom of speech as we have it now, with no modifications as a result of this controversy and others, such as the Chick-Fil-A controversy. As long as no one used violence to state their point and no one gets hurt, I really believe that we should allow everyone to speak their mind, as long as they accept the consequences, which would ideally be only controversy, but no physical violence. If everyone worldwide were encouraged to be respectful of everyone else’s right to state their claims as well as the right to disagree, we would live in a unified society where religious and political dialogues could happen without the looming threat of violence.
Following this train of thought, I definitely think that the government should remain neutral on all types of religious matters, as long as no one is hurting anyone or causing distress or oppressing women and other minorities due to “religious reasons.” For example, I believe in allowing complete freedom to practicing aspects of one’s culture, but I wouldn’t be able to stomach the thought that there could possibly be women and girl children having their genitals mutilated due to some twisted (in my opinion, no offence meant) cultural practices. Similarly, when the government feels like they have to uphold the morals specified by religious texts, it leads to a society where people are oppressed and misogyny and homophobia are so ingrained as to not even be debatable in a public forum. When I speak of a country like this, an example could be the Dominican Republic, the country I was born and partly raised in. This is a society where you could call a man a “faggot” and have no one condemn you publically, where slut-shaming is something that happens a matter of course. Recently there was some controversy where a young pregnant woman who was dying of cancer couldn’t have an abortion performed in time to have the lifesaving chemotherapy, because abortion was seen as a “sin” in everyone’s eyes.
But I digress. I want to close this off by saying that although I understand religious anger, I like living in a society where this type of open debate can be had without a threat of violence or government interventions on your right to free speech, no matter how ignorant or inflammatory that speech may be. I also believe that secularism should be the default in government because I am not comfortable with trying to enforce one’s morals on others.
-Marianny De Leon
Daniella Diaz
Freedom of speech has many different meanings to different people in different countries or regions. In the U.S., for example, we let anyone say pretty much anything they want to say. Whether it’s offensive or not, everyone has the right to their own ideologies. Now, punishing someone for speaking their mind on their ideologies is blasphemy and “has been used as a weapon of coercion by the religious status quo for centuries”. In the Middle East, however, there is no “freedom of speech”. “Freedom of speech” is conditional upon the message and people will face consequences by the government and/or their religious leaders. Which brings up the case that “the religious aspects of the political system or the political aspects of the religious system.”
Freedom of speech has many different meanings to different people in different countries or regions. In the U.S., for example, we let anyone say pretty much anything they want to say. Whether it’s offensive or not, everyone has the right to their own ideologies. Now, punishing someone for speaking their mind on their ideologies is blasphemy and “has been used as a weapon of coercion by the religious status quo for centuries”. In the Middle East, however, there is no “freedom of speech”. “Freedom of speech” is conditional upon the message and people will face consequences by the government and/or their religious leaders. Which brings up the case that “the religious aspects of the political system or the political aspects of the religious system.”
(Name: Krizia Santana)...My opinion is that everyone has freedom of speech and freedom of religion so they are entitled to say and to believe in what they wish. Although just because the Muslims were truely offended by the film ( they have all the right to be) it doesn't mean that they should result to the means of killing other human beings. There are other ways to resolve conflicts besides resulting to violence. In the end. Violence doesn't do you any justice, it just makes you seem more like the vulgar one. The film was offensive and wrong because it did target the Muslims and ridiculed them but discrimination happens all the time whether it be with Muslims or other cultures. Honestly they both deserve a penalty because of you view all the events thy have occurred ever since this scandal you would agree that they are both in the wrong. I think that secularism would be beneficial to have because it gives us a sense of freedom from being tied down or having to bite your tongue, after all no one is a slave anymore we yearn freedom. .....by Krizia Santana
if I am correct, secularism is close to the separation of state and church. as much as we would want to believe, this is not the case in the united states. “in god we trust” is engraved on every coin and printed on every dollar bill that circulates our land.
guilt by association is the worst fallacy when it comes to politics and religion. the actions of a few produce consequences for the whole community. when one person or a small group (a) “pokes” at what is considered sacred to another group (b), possibly because (a) thinks that he has the right of free speech and he wants to voice his opinion and its met with retaliation from (b). the retaliation is just fuel to the fire, because now (a) points out that (b) is revolting. the feud continues to escalate in a vicious cycle.
there is a fine line between freedom of speech and bigotry. the right to exercise your freedom of speech ends when you violate another person’s rights, and if I recall correctly, the freedom of religion is alongside the freedom of speech on the first amendment of the united states’ constitution.
All this has been taking out of proportion. It was a very simple problem but when it became political , thats when all hell broke loose.
The conflict between is nothing new and due to that fact i personal do believe in God but do not follow a particular religion because i just think that it's a monopoly to control people's lives.
Now getting to the main point. Every man is entitled to his freedom of speech especially in a country that promotes it. Muslims around the should respect it. But i do believe that despite the words says free, one still has restrictions as per what they can or can't do or say. Therefore, this is to say that there is a boundary one should not cross. But with that been said, if it' s been crossed by fools who try to ignite a conflict, then its the opposition who needs to asses who they dealing with and handle situation a lot more better, rather that killing innocent people who has no connection to the problem.
It' s sad to say but we human beings are still animals.
Freedom of speech is such an fundamental amendment to this century, without freedom of speech we might as well walk around with our mouths sown and let the governors, presidents, church’s, house representatives, pastors, anyone whom society views as “authority” lead us through our lives with no if’s and or butts from our side. The law is harsh but the law is law, is that the world you want to live in? I certainly could not live in such a place where woman are used as maids, cooks, rags, and personal pleasure toys. I believe in using the brain given to me by whatever higher power guides this universe. I would rather die for my right as a woman, and human being, than give into oppression of religion and authority. Fighting till my death to prove that woman have equal right to education, work, entertainment, food, as any other male on this planet. I for one as a Computer & Electrical Engineer major am in a vastly male oriented field, and I fight the oppression of the males view of a delicate woman, for I am quite the opposite aggressive strong minded individual with her eyes on the prize. And as Professor Triff stated we must preserve the right of our enemies, for if they have neither do we. We may agree to disagree, but you have the right o your opinion. Your brain, and thought process is different from every person you pass by in the universe, sure many may have the same views but no one thinks the exact same thoughts, in the same combinations. Suzy and Hanna may like mayo but Suzy loves the combination of mayo and mustard and Hanna on the other hand enjoys mayo and ketchup. I also agree that the point of those political cartoonist and directors of films or even authors is to get a reaction from their audience, the creator or the film accomplished his mission by proving his point about Muslims. I believe it is weak to rather decapitate your enemy than to face them like a man, and prove your beliefs and morals against theirs. I rather agree with open minded secularism,with out tension and dis-agreement the truth shall never unfold, the reality of the situation remains hidden until provoked.
Julina Gamboa
MWF 9am
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