"Where is the Muslim Outrage?"
Lately, I have been pondering the comment "Where is the Muslim outrage?" American commentators have been asking this question in the now international debate about extremism. The question is often used to either (1) throw Islamic moderates on the defensive, or (2) appeal to Islamic moderates to act as an interpreter between American interests and the Islamic world.
I am beginning to suspect that there is a third, ulterior motive in the question. The question implies a moderate American position—America as the victim of the aggressive policies of an aggressive religion. As you are reading this, you are probably anticipating my next comment…You might even be salivating to swat down my now obvious assertion that American foreign policy may be construed as aggressive, and may be contributing to a cycle of extremism. If you agree with me, then you are probably saying, "So what?" This article is not for you…
I am writing to and for those that are still steaming up right now at the thought of what I am suggesting. Before you blow your top, consider this: Why is your reaction so vitriolic? Could it be an unconscious fear that our (American) arguments might be successfully refuted in a rational debate? I have not heard or seen anyone calmly attempt to rebut the argument that American foreign policy has squeezed the Islamic world and that increasing pressure is increasing the ranks of those who would kill innocent people to strike out at America and the West.
Right after September 11th, merely suggesting this was dangerous. My gut feeling is that those who react violently to my suggestion (whether they are Democrat, Republican, male, female, left-handed, or any other classification you can think up) would be quick to point out the atrocities that have been committed throughout the world in the name of Islam and demand to know why the Islamic world has not condemned these acts.
Allow me to posit: the Islamic world is looking for an alternative to Western foreign policy, which seems heavily biased against them. The only voice that has risen against the West is a radically violent one. Quick quiz: name a respected Islamic moderate opposed to Western policy…Times up…How many did you get?
Perhaps Americans need to first accept that our foreign policy is not necessarily correct all the time. Once we get over that divide (if we get over that divide…), then the next step is to accept that opposing American foreign policy is not always threatening (one calls to mind French and German hesitation to go to War, and American reactions). Finally, perhaps we could find moderate Islamic leaders opposed to the West and make sure that their position is clearly heard so that Muslims around the world have someone to turn to that doesn’t want to solve problems with suicide bombers.
Just a thought…