NCJ Number
203065
Journal
Journal of the Institute of Justice and International Studies Issue: 3 Dated: 2003 Pages: 141-160
Date Published
2003
Length
20 pages
Annotation
This article explores America’s previous immunity from terrorism and compares liberal political culture to Islamic political culture.
Abstract
The article asserts that prior to September 11, 2001, America was immune from terrorism for three main reasons. First, America’s institutional balance between the principle of majority rule and minority rights has reduced tensions among minorities. Second, there has been a relative absence of ideological groups outside of the mainstream liberal political culture; and third, is the willingness of the American public to support conflicting political views. The article elaborates on these assertions and then discusses how a liberal political culture provides deliberative steps to readdress inequalities. This system of liberal political culture is contrasted to Islamic political culture, especially in terms of evangelization. The article defines terrorism and asserts that liberalism is an antidote for terrorism. The political culture of institutional Islam, the values and beliefs of Islam, and ideals of Islam are described as the article shows how Islamic beliefs perpetuate terrorism. The often used methods for spreading Islam are described and include pragmatism, passive conspiracy, and holy wars. Any attempt to understand the zealousness of Islam requires analyzing it in its historical, political, and military contexts. References