Opposing radicalization will I imagine require a broad-spectrum approach: theological arguments against it, and against the Apocalyptic-nihilistic vision which inspires much terrorism, and this to be conducted within the Islamic theological framework; cultural arguments to counter and ‘deconstruct’ the theme of ‘Western decadence’; ethical – and cultural and historical -arguments regarding the role of women in society and regarding too the desirability – or not – of violent, terrorist action; sociological and psychological arguments to counter and explain whatever experiences of racism or prejudice have been encountered; psychological arguments to dissect and counter various forms of ‘identity crisis’ and inner ‘identity conflict’ and ‘status anxiety’ felt by these young men and women; political arguments to counter the various themes of complaint – valid and less valid – about Western behavior and hypocrisy – the history of Western expansion and imperialism; the Israel-Palestine conflict; the invasions of Afghanistan and Iraq, the apparent indifference to Muslim suffering in Bosnia and ex-Yugoslavia, the apparent indifference to the suffering and civil war in Syria, and etc. A critique, too, of the claims of ISIS and other terrorist groups, and a critical – very critical – analysis of their ethics, their aims, the means they use, and so on. A critique – perhaps humorous and satirical, too, of the ‘style’ and pretensions of ISIS and other such groups: make it ridiculous and not sexy; that would be fatal.. All of which will require, on our part, a considerable dose of self-criticism and self-awareness. This comes down to establishing a dialogue – an ‘I-thou’ relationship. Then, too, there the social and family and ideological contexts and the role of evil doctrines and seductive gurus and teachers, and the financial flows which promote and back the preachers of intolerance, hatred, and jihad, all of which must be countered too.
gjreid 