The Core Issue Of The Modern Age

The Core Issue Of The Modern Age

Farid ud din Ahmed

Ideological confrontations, religious intolerance, cultural domination and globalization of resources have become the core issue of the modern age putting the world, in general and the Islamic world in particular, in turmoil leading to a continued state of confrontation between the Muslim countries and the West. There is now more than ever a need for a healthy political environment for the nations to achieve prosperity. We need to come up as early as possible with new initiatives to bring about global security as things are not as bleak as they look to be.

 

The constant rhetoric of extremism attributed to the Muslims by the Western media is destroying the spirit of friendship and security. Looking from an optimistic view there are pressure groups that can influence the world opinion for  enforcement of just policies that can de-escalate tension between West and Muslim world. At the same time, it is important to foster Judeo-Christian and Islamic values and to point out the common ground among three great Abrahamic religions rather than polarise them. There are values that can be shared among all religions and faiths.

 

Besides media men, academics and N.G.O's, religious scholars too need to speak out against bigotry and hatred. The conflicts that have divided us demands finding initiatives and just solutions. The Muslim world feels that the West is exploiting the situation and is motivated by greed in this quest. From the other side of the fence, the West perceives Islam as a threat and sees Muslims as enemies who are out for a world order through terrorism. These extreme views need to be corrected for the two sides to co-exist and prosper. International political actions must recognise that extremism and violence are the result of injustice and discrimination.

 

There is a worldwide need for a secure political economic and social environment through global cooperation between civil societies and institutions. To curb the extremism and an air of despair found among the young people, the best investment by any government is the academic and cultural exchange programs that allow the young people to grow up respecting cultural diversity and experience practical tolerance. Educational programmes in various disciplines can shape a moral global awareness among the younger generation. The need of the time is to find means that can reduce human sufferings and eradicate poverty.

 

As for the nation-states, it is vital that they respect international laws. United Nations should be recognised and strengthened as the only international body qualified to enforce peace and act as the world's watchdog. Sadly the western countries are openly undermining the efforts of peace and authority of the U.N. and ignoring its recommendations at every opportunity. And in this, the Muslim world sees double standards at work.

 

The conflict between the Muslims and western civilizations is chiefly politically motivated. Politicians of both sides have failed to achieve peace and as a result, a small group of extremism has hijacked the two worlds. As for the prime responsibility of the Muslims is concerned, they are to propagate the message of Islam through skill and eloquence and let it work with respect to its image towards the real development of human society.