30th Annual Student Research Conference
The Multifaceted Cause of Islamic Extremism
Isaiah J. Winkelmann
Dr. Mark Appold, Faculty Mentor
The cause of Islamic extremism is multifaceted and complex but can be directly related to three main sources, the Shia-Sunni divide, Western intervention within the Middle East, and lastly the use of “sword passages” within the Qur’an which in some traditions have been employed to justify violence and hate. The struggle between the Shia and Sunni, a divide which can be traced to just after Muhammed’s death, has only been exasperated by the formation of nation states, such as Iraq, which hold several different sects within their borders. Failed relations with western powers and Russia, has led to a century of subjugation, exploitation and deep ceded hatred and ignorance. Lastly “sword passages” from the Qur’an and their historical and theological context will be analyzed. Such a thesis will serve to assert the complexity of Islamic extremism.
Keywords: Islamic , Extremism , History, Religion
Topic(s):History
Philosophy & Religion
Presentation Type: Oral Paper
Session: 108-3
Location: VH 1224
Time: 8:30