.

I thought I should share this one with you, Joel (Oops ... Loej) :

http://www.uua.org/ga/past/2011/ware-armstrong

.

Banjo Paterson,

Now you must play games with my log-on name, wildly imagining that because I ask for evidence and balance, and a return to the thread subject from the obvious hijacking with that book, then I must have Jewish origins. I don't but it shouldn't matter, although it would cause you angst apparently.

That could suggest a skew in your own world view and perhaps explains why you prefer ad hominem to examining arguments. No sense(sic) in allowing any contrary evidence to disturb your wrong and crooked dualist thinking. So much for your credibility and that feigned politeness.

I have quite reasonably requested that you examine the facts put forward by a reviewer of an author whose only claim to expertise seems to be that she is an ex-nun. Both should stand by and be measured against their claims, nothing more and nothing less.

The truth will out eventually, which is one of the strong reasons for freedom of speech. And avoiding the censorship that the Sixties generation fought so hard for along with the real LEFT - who demanded freedom of speech for everyone and not just themselves.

Another reminder since you are so determined to duck,
"What is also apparent is your continued refusal to address the forum topic and arguments directed at it. In my previous posts for example there was the repeated reminder that, "womens rights campaigner Ayaan Hirsi Ali has said many times that the reformation of Islam is not solely concerned with terrorism but mainly the treatment of women. That is the subject of the thread, the treatment of women by Islam"

Dear Banjo Paterson,

Thank You for the link and information regarding Karen
Armstrong. It helps to know the background of an
author. Hers is quite impressive.

Regarding religion, violence, and Islam? Much has been
written on the topic and it's part of the ongoing
debate regarding the reformation of Islam. One cannot
simply discuss one aspect of this religion, when there are
so many issues at play. In her latest book, "Heretic:
Why Islam needs a Reformation now," Ayaan Hirsi Ali
writes that, "... without fundamental alterations to some
of Islam's core concepts we shall not solve the burning
and increasingly global problem of political violence
carried out in the name of religion."

She argues that Islamic violence is rooted not in social,
economic, or political conditions, or even in theological
but rather in the foundational texts of Islam itself.
That in order for Islam to reform certain parts need to be
changed or rejected.
This makes sense including issues dealing with
things like the inequality of women, FGM, and so on.
Hirsi Ali seems to feel that Muslims are ready for change
and reform and that inevitably any reform must come from
within as the following link confirms:

http://spectator.com.au/2017/04/reforming-islam/

Foxy: Hirsi Ali seems to feel that Muslims are ready for change and reform and that inevitably any reform must come from within as the following link confirms:

And just how far do you reckon she'll get debating with the eminent Saudi Scholars? It's all well & good for her to claim that but very few are interested in reform. In fact it's all headed the other way because they think they are taking over Europe. They are all excited about achieving a long awaited victory in Europe & the way the EU is Governed they look like actually doing it. Unless, that is, the likes of Trump, Le Pen & Wilders can put a stop to it.

Dear Jayb.,

I've stated previously that I don't claim to be an
expert on Islam and I certainly don't know the most
effective way for all the complex issues regarding
this religion to be addressed. Therefore I try to
read as much as I can on the subject and glean as
much as I can from people who are experts in this
field. I've come across the following link which
I found helpful. Perhaps you will as well:

http://www.economist.com/blog/erasmus/2015/01/reforming-islam

cont'd ...

My apologies for the typo in the link.

I'll try again:

http://www.economist.com/blogs/erasmus/2015/01/reforming-islam