Digital Bibliography

Sol Sanders, "SANDERS: Does America have a ‘Muslim problem’?," Washington Times, 11/27/11

http://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2011/nov/27/sanders-does-america-have-a-muslim-problem/

Cooper, Anderson, “American Muslims celebrating 9/11,” CNN, 11/6/09

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W5BtQgTGOI4

An-Na’im, Abdullahi, “How do Muslims Feel About the U.S.?” Emory University, 8/8/11

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ol40LCZ7Xfg

Akel, Bassil, “Islam and the Western Media,” Islam for Today

http://www.islamfortoday.com/media.htm

Cooper, Anderson, “Do You Believe You Can Be a Good American?” 11/16/11

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K34NG2VR7dA

myfellowamericantv, “My Fellow American,” My Fellow American Channel, 6/13/11

http://www.youtube.com/user/myfellowamericantv?v=cjm0uk2JO58&feature=pyv

Inside Islam, “Muslims “Go Back Home!”” Wisconsin Public Radio, 5/10/11

http://insideislam.wisc.edu/index.php/archives/7575

Justin Elliott, “How the “ground zero mosque” fear mongering began,” Salon, 8/16/10

http://www.salon.com/2010/08/16/ground_zero_mosque_origins/

Edward E Curtis, “Islam has long history downtown: Why the ‘Ground Zero mosque’ belongs in lower Manhattan,” NY Daily News, 7/23/10

http://articles.nydailynews.com/2010-07-23/news/29439142_1_muslim-community-muslim-americans-ground-zero-mosque

New Media Project

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/PDAsmZABR20" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

New Media Project

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/PDAsmZABR20" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

Sol Sanders, "SANDERS: Does America have a ‘Muslim problem’?," Washington Times, 11/27/11

Sanders is very effective, on several levels, in this article as he discusses the typical American attitude towards Islam in relation to the prior American attitude towards communism. He discusses how the problem with the American view of Islam is not in the differentiation between the use of Islamic ideals for religion or for politics, but it is much deeper and more complex. Just as the fear of communism spread through the U.S. in the mid-1900s, an epidemic of Islamic fear is now infiltrating our thoughts. While McCarthyism made the accusations "You're a communist," today's 'ism' points a nasty finger in the face of Muslims.

Yet, Sander discusses the apparent similarities of Islam with Christianity saying "Islam never had its Renaissance, its Reformation, its Counter-Reformation, its Haskalah, its Enlightenment, its scientific revolution" like the others which makes accusations against Islam  a bit unfair.

Additionally, Sanders actually educates! He provides Islamic/Arabic based terms and (interestingly) provides a definition for those terms. THIS is what the U.S. Media needs in order to overcome their prejudices. A potential problem though, is that his message and educative ability, through publication in the Washington Post, only reaches certain audiences (potentially the more educated anyway).

Finally, the intonation Sanders utilizes to get his message across provides subtle revelation. He says, "Just oil revenue alone of a half-trillion dollars annually finances fanaticism to spread hatred with a 'we-they' syndrome so virulent that no Western psychiatrist could have imagined it." This 'we-they' syndrome he explores is extremely multifaceted. It provides insight into the ugliness of the every day opinions of individuals if they fail to understand others. Additionally, it lights up some orientalist ideas where the definition of a religion is shaped in the eyes of the outsider.

Final Project Proposal (with Emma Wilson)

Summary:

Throughout our lives we have been exposed to the typical connotations associated with the Islamic faith. Through this course, we have witnessed the media's portrayal of Muslims to be primarily negative. We wish to explore how coverage of the events of September 11th contribute to the negative views of many Americans. 

Now that we have taken a world religions class, we realize that what the news portrays is only the extremes, and of course 'bad' news is more popular to listeners than 'good' news. During our last few lectures, the Islamic faith has proved to be just as peaceful and respectful as any other religion. Therefore, with our project we want to explore the effects of media on people from our demographic and illustrate the power of the media to develop prejudices within citizens. Further we want to provide evidence for the general ignorance of individuals, both in relation to Islam and the events of 9/11. 

Since the events of 9/11 (and the association of Al-Queda in the attacks) dominates the media's portrayal of Muslims, we will show video's/news clips to individuals and ask them to respond briefly. Additionally, we will ask them questions about Islam and 9/11. We will ask them to explore where their opinions/stereotypes come from. 

We hope to be happily surprised to find that Gustavus students are all above the exaggerations of the media but we more-so expect to find some ignorance and stereotypic opinions.

Thesis:

U.S. citizens (Gustavus students) gain their prejudices against Muslims from association with the violence of 9/11 (and the media's portrayal of the events) without understanding the Islamic faith. 

Sources:

Video about victims of 9/11:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6G0vP3dQvyY&feature=fvwrel

Media coverage of attacks:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LhqLh_c0NL4 

        (accident or deliberate attack @7 min)

        (second crash @8:10 min -- deliberate --actually speculate Bin Laden initially)

Voices of the hijackers:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wl4RFoT-sJQ

United 93 Trailer:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Cz9BTKO_plI

Bin Laden pronounced dead/taking credit for the attacks:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bq-JaBhEqC8

     (this is all that we hoped for...allah be praised)

Other videos:

Muslims in the US: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W5BtQgTGOI4

How Muslims feel about the US: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ol40LCZ7Xfg

Other Sources:

http://www.reuters.com/article/2011/11/02/us-france-fire-magazine-idUSTRE7A117N20111102

http://www.islamfortoday.com/media.htm

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K34NG2VR7dA

Description of the project:

We (Ann and Emma) will be creating a video, compiling clips from interviews with Gusties and popular media clips from the events of September 11th. 

Resources:

We will not need additional assistance, we will be utilizing on-campus video cameras and 'final cut pro' software also found on campus! 

"Muslims rally in New York, say we're also Americans," The Times of India, 11/20/11

"We are unapologetically Muslim and uncompromisingly American," this article quotes Imam Talib Abdur-Rashid as his opinion stands for the feelings of Muslim protesters in New York. This group of individuals feel that the police's involvement in their mosques and religious practices is unwarranted and goes against their rights as citizens. This type of Muslim-American interaction (despite the fact that it is also an American-American interaction) illustrates many frustrating realities. One problem is the so-called separation of church and state in America. Clearly, police infiltration goes against several aspects of this tenet of the American government. Yet it must be noted that after 9/11, laws were implemented that reduced the privacy of citizens for the sake of general U.S. security (Patriot Act). Given such, this New York police involvement becomes warranted. The problem here, in the eyes of these American Muslims, is the generalization/stereotypes projected onto them. I understand their religious frustration, yet they have to understand that they are the ones with the power to break the American prejudices against Islam. The tone of this article alludes that they might understand this, as they protest in a simple and powerful way. This partnership, of Peaceful Muslims with open-minded journalists, has the potential to change the hearts of many Americans.

Harold Mandel, "Dr Sangay wants "concrete action" from Obama administration," Examiner, 11/7/11

The author of this article does little to provide background information for their reader audience. This poses a problem for those who are not avid followers of current events. It is especially observable in my demographic that spending time on current events in not a part of the daily hectic routine (unless imposed upon them by the looming assignments of a crazy world religions prof). When Mandel discusses the need for US support, he briefly brushes over the self-immolations that have headlined recently. Furthermore, his discussion is completely lacking in any educative information on the current situation in Tibet. Through these 'looming assignments imposed upon me by my crazy world religions prof' I am familiar with the situation. Yet despite my educated viewpoint, I was still left to question the role Dr. Sangay plays in the situation. It is implied that he is an influential leader in Tibet or in the Buddhist faith but Mandel does not even give him a few word description. Admittedly, a short news update can not be exhaustive on the background material, yet in order to allow readers to be informed there needs to be a balance between efficiency and comprehensiveness in presenting material in the media.

Rajan Zed, "Jews & Buddhists join upset Hindus in asking apology from Kentucky politician," Gant Daily, 11/4/11

"I hope their eyes are opened and they receive Jesus Christ as their personal savior," a Kentucky politician says as he degrades the Hindu religion. This and other quotes are presented in this article, as Zed discusses the broadening response to this intolerance. Although a direct slam at some Hindu practices, this politician is being pressured not only from Hindus but from Jews and Buddhists alike for a public apology. I think there is more to be said about the content of this news article than the tone with which the author discusses the events. Many American's may tentatively condemn this politician's ideology. Even more would categorize this situation, or this politician's intolerance, as a lone standing event. But upon deep contemplation of the typical American attitude you'll find deeply engrained prejudices against any religion seen as 'different' or 'foreign.' As presented in adherents.com, it is estimated that 33% of the world's population are Christian while 16% are Hindu. The way I see it this translates quickly to a sad image: randomly gather 100 world citizens and 33 of them, terrorized by ignorance, huddle in the corner whispering hopes at the rest that they 'receive Jesus Christ as their personal savior.' Parallel to the situation with the Kentucky politician, the remaining religions band together cohesively. While it may be with good intentions, our ignorant viewpoint will yield no good benefits. As this ignorance breeds segregation and intolerance, even discussions like Zed's open-minded examination of this situation are not enough to combat the deep prejudices.

Daniel A Bell, "Is China Facing a Health Care Crisis?" New York Times, 11/1/11

Although health care reform is a common headliner in the U.S., it is rarely associated with religious influences. Most media discussions on health care do not include commentary on the Christian values held by the majority. This article, a U.S. based publication, is centered around the Chinese system of health care. In doing so, Bell subtly characterizes the inherent differences between the Chinese and American economic systems. Further, he eludes to the more religiously relevant philosophies held by each world hegemony. He interjects his discussion with the role of filial piety, a commonly held view of Confucianism, without fully defining the term to his audience. This seems to be an underlying difficulty involved in religion in the media -discussions might be encompassing but education on 'foreign' religion concepts tends to be lacking. What Bell does appropriately, though, is provide a sturdy foundation for the 'foreign' term filial piety. Unfortunately, usually even this baseline for an educative perspective gets clouded by opinions, biases or judgements by reporters. Any educative perspective provided by Bell then becomes one of vague exposure to religious concepts. Although this is not ideal, it will allow for recognition of terminology in future exposures. In this way, as readers scan for headlines that are familiar to them (ie. health care) they will become conditioned to some religious concepts, yielding a gradual comfort/education with the topics.

Aisha Chowdhry, "Taliban gone, but Bamiyan still fearful," USA TODAY, 10/25/11

After the explosive destruction of the "Buddhas of Bamiyan" by the Taliban in 2001, the topic of this article is focused mainly on the current prospects of this region of Afghanistan. Yet the issues brought up in this article are dynamic. Despite our culture's efforts to compartmentalize the religious and public sectors into separate spheres, Chowdhry provides a powerful example of the role religion can (and does) play in economic realms. In this way, as the people of Bamiyan attempt to recoup from the terroristic effects from years of Taliban rule, they want to focus on building the foundations for a successful tourist based economy. What became even more interesting to me was the insight into the dynamic between the Islam and Buddhism populations. While the U.S. media coverage of the Taliban seems to be constant, the coverage maintains subtle connotations of their ideology, discussing mainly their threat to the U.S. Because of this, I see the general population often narrowing their view of the Taliban's ideology (especially when associations to al Qaeda are added) to be primarily anti-American. Therefore, this article becomes a rare educative media article, as it discusses the Taliban's motives behind destroying the Buddhas of Bamiyan. As Chowdhry states, "Omar [the Taliban's leader] deemed [the Buddhas of Bamiyan] as un-Islamic idols." Finally, this illustrates how powerfully horrible intolerance can be. Our world could clearly use a few more doses of tolerance.

Sherab Chamma Ling, "Buddhist centre offers teaching retreat," Comox Valley Record, 10/11/11

In this Canadian news article, Ling discusses a Buddhist retreat being offered at the end of this month in British Columbia. In comparison to many news articles on 'foreign' religions, there is a major difference in not only Ling's knowledgeable perspective, but also the tone with which he discusses the event. It seems to me that much of the Western thought on Buddhism (and other minority religions) is largely based on ignorant assumptions -a stance that has deep roots in the media's projections of the beliefs and practices of those religions. Therefore, this article provides the Western public with a unique opportunity for education on the topic. Without the undertones of judgement or criticism, Ling provides meaningful and accurate descriptions of meditative practices. By defining the methods of meditation (mantra, visualization and contemplation) he strips the ignorant Westernized projections of meditation and provides a groundwork for the appreciation of the practices. The end of the article, as he takes on a role of an advocator for the retreat (asking for $130 from those interested), gives evidence that Ling is Buddhist himself -or at least somehow involved in the planning of this retreat. The possibility that Ling might be a Buddhist should not take away from the effectiveness of this article. He is able to describe the aims of these meditations in a way that allows people from all backgrounds to connect. Instead of making the goals seem primitive, he makes the process seem appealing to a typical Western world view (while still remaining accurate). Although this article is fairly short, focused on one small event, and targets a comparatively small reader audience, I feel it becomes a very powerful article. If only the majority of Western journalists could emulate Ling's approach, then religion in the media might take on a more educative role. 

"Stanford, Harvard get $5.2 million for Buddhist studies," San Francisco Business Times, 10/3/11

Two American ivy league schools, Stanford and Harvard, just received several million dollar grants from a Chinese based foundation. As this article discusses, this money is to be used specifically for the development of a comprehensive Buddhism curriculum. Although the author's tone (informative in nature) does not provide for much discussion, I think the foundation providing the funding, Robert H.N. Ho Family Foundation, is worth reflection. Browsing the website of the foundation, they seem to have several main goals:

1. Developing arts education, creative development, and cross cultural understanding
2. Exploring the arts/buddhism intersections and Buddhist views and practices
3. Creating Buddhist learning networks.

If we evaluate the trends of charity organizations or independent donors, there always seems to be a common ground between the donor and the receiver (religious, political, etc.). Similarly, several million dollars invested into these U.S. scholarly institutions can not be a simple coincidence. On the surface, many Westerners' ignorance makes them seem intolerant of other religions. Buddhism, Hinduism, Islam and other 'foreign' religions all carry primitive and negative connotations in the Western world. In today's American culture, the media primarily discusses religion in association with some international conflict. The goal of 'cross cultural understanding' of this organization stands out here -providing the common ground necessary for such an investment. I would think the American media to play a large role in the general ignorance of the population in terms of world religions, so clearly this foundation wouldn't target the media to bring about their influence (there is little common ground there). Alternatively, providing funding to enhance knowledge of Buddhism to a couple of influential and prestigious educational facilities would be far more fitting -and far more effective. I believe this sort of subtle infiltration to enhance the 'world-view' of many Westerners is a very clever tactic and I applaud the aims of the R.H.N Ho Family Foundation.

"2 Tibetan monks burn themselves amid Dalai Lama feud," USA TODAY, 9/26/11

What defines a nation? Surely, an area with a unified political and economic system would be considered a nation. Yet what role do cultural and religious aspects play in determining a nation's identity? How does a nation maintain unity amongst cultural diversity? Tibet emulates the role religious diversity can play within a nation. This article highlights the the problems that can arise when a nation's government neglects to recognize the need for the religious identity of it's citizens. The article discusses the frustrations of many Tibetans as the Chinese authoritarian government dictates who will become their next Dalai Lama. As two monks self-immolate themselves (set themselves on fire) in protest, a Chinese leader points out that past Dalai Lamas have been chosen in a similar manner (never chosen by the Dalai Lama himself). This reflects what seems to be a growing theme in politics, not only in China but across the globe: the desire of citizens to be represented religiously and culturally. The majority of the international conflicts/wars of the post-Cold War era have been fueled by some religious foundation. Whether it be Tibet, Kurdistan, Palestine, or Taiwan, religion surfaces in many of the worlds most heated issues. So how does a nation find peace? Clearly, China is sticking to its guns "as the Chinese government reiterated it will choose the next Dalai Lama" despite protests. In Tibet's pursuit for independence/autonomy, this stance by government officials will only bring further rifts between China and Tibet. Essentially stating "this is how it has been done in the past, so get over it" is no way to bring about national peace. Here we have two burning monks, but I predict (sadly) it will take many more flaming protests until government systems around the world recognize the need to deeply acknowledge religion.

Michael Edwards, "Hindu outrage over play featuring Ganesh," ABC.net.au, 9/20/11

A theatre presentation called "Ganesh Versus the Third Reich" is set to appear in Melbourne, Australia this month and this article presents the current conflict over the comical representation of the sacred Hindu god, Ganesh. Without providing extensive historical or sacred background on the topic, Mark Colvin briefly introduces the basis for the anger of the Hindu population by saying "a theater group has unwittingly [w/o knowledge or intention] drawn the ire [anger] of Hindu groups over a play which features a depiction of the elephant-headed god, Ganesh". The approach this author utilizes is unfortunately misguiding. With christian thought as the dominating force in both Australia and the U.S., the majority of the targeted audience is left to make false assumptions. A deeper problem surfaces here as an example of religion in the news. Rather than used as a means of education, news articles like this encourage the ignorant prejudices and stereotypes most Americans (and Australians?) cling to. The theme of the article revolves around the frustrations of the Hindu population, yet the tone of the article becomes subtly condescending (adding fuel to the fire of the Hindu's frustrations). The author never uses directly demeaning or derogatory terminology, but his lack of descriptions/education on the Hindu subject matter fails to provide the audience the tools to make educated judgements. Until news coverage of world religions aims to provide education with the current events, the ruts that divide and separate each religion from the other will become deeper.

J.D. Gallop, "Hinduism finds a second Brevard home at Suntree site," Florida Today, 8/26/11

This article discusses the construction of a new Hindu temple called Manav Mandir in Brevard County, FL. It is interesting because it highlights the need to accommodate the diversities of these 'world religions' in our American culture. It is interesting to note the tone of the author, refreshingly positive, about the integration of this group of people into the subculture in Florida.  In doing so he illustrates the dynamics involved with accepting varying religions and he emphasizes that it can be successful to have varying opinions in close proximity. Gallop includes quotes from several Indian Hindus who will be directly affected by the construction, emphasizing the good this project will bring to the community as a whole -not just to the Hindus. This article offers an enlightening glance into the religious endeavors of the minority in America and successfully allows one to relate to these Hindus (whom they might not otherwise consider to have any common ground). Further, this article becomes subtly educating for non-Hindus, by explaining the origins of some of the Hindu practices and gods.

"Dakota Meyer and Barack Obama share Medal of Honor beer," BBC, 9/15/11

This article discusses the upcoming honors for a US marine and also explains the details behind his heroic actions. When Taliban fighters attacked this sergeant's squad in Afghanistan, Meyer rushed to the rescue of 36 soldiers. Putting himself in the fire zone to save dozens of lives is unquestioningly an honorable act of heroism, yet it is interesting to consider the following description the author provides: "Sgt Meyer manned the exposed gun-turret of the truck and killed a number of enemy fighters while intense fire homed in on their vehicle." Despite the horrors of the Taliban and other violent terrorist groups, this act of saving lives also ended the lives of some others. Granted this 'fighting of fire with fire' is what is expected of war, yet one can't help but consider the families (and potential children) of those "enemies." It becomes an exhausting downward spiral, from US support of Isreal, to 9/11 and culminating with the war on terrorism. Such extreme inhumanity and violence -based on differing ideologies and religions- seems absurd. Considering the loads of lives and money spent (from both sides) on such a battle, it becomes difficult not to question human nature. In a search for life's biggest questions (who/what is our higher power, what is meaning to this earthly life, etc) we forget to consider each other. We become distraught at the loss of American lives because as Americans we are similar. Yet, I'm sure the loss of those "enemies" led to many grief-stricken individuals on the other side. If only we could all take a step back and start over with a dose of mutual respect and acceptance. This is clearly a daunting task, but one worth attempting (as discussed prior in relation to the LIFG). As this article warrants disheartening questions about human nature, the author provides an uplifting conclusion with a quote from Meyer, "It's hard... getting recognized for the worst day of your life, so it's a really tough thing." I find this to be an inspiring thought, making me proud of my American background and honored to have people like Meyer spending months in Afghanistan. Clearly, he has not become detached from the emotional side of war which, in my opinion, makes him even more deserving of this Metal of Honor.

Omar Ashour, "Fears over Islamists within Libyan rebel ranks," BBC, 9/14/11

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-africa-14728565

This article presents the current status of the Libyan Islamic Fighting Group (LIFG) in relation to the uprisings and unrest in Libya. The LIFG, despite their disapproval for Gaddafi, has not gained much support from the West due to their violent tactics and speculated links to al-Qaeda and other terrorist groups. I had never heard of LIFG and Ashour mentions this 'historical link to al-Qaeda" near the beginning of the article -instantly warranting negative judgements within me. After 9/11 and the aftermath, fear of terrorism is tightly associated with the Islamic religion for many Americans. This association becomes most American's main experience with Islam, making it hard to acknowledge the other (positive) aspects of the religion. By connecting the Libyan "Islamic" Fighting Group with terrorism further enhances this stereotype. Yet this article is insightful when it considers the goals of the LIFG. Although most US citizens will never agree with their violent means, we can start to relate to (and respect) other aspects about their goals. This article sheds some light on the fact that the leaders of LIFG are conscious of the global repercussions of their actions. It seems as though they've realized that respect and support of other nations (namely, the West) will only come through "moderation of their behavior and ideology" (Ashour). This is illustrated in their name change, from from a violent military group to the political "Islamic Movement for Change." I have always believed these violent Islamic activists to be brainwashed (especially after the tragedy of 9/11), but this is a step in the right direction. They can still be passionate about their faith and traditions, yet they are making efforts to accomplish their goals in a civilized manner. Ashour makes it clear that this sort of transition is not a "flip of a switch" kind of movement and I agree. Although it's hard for me to remove 9/11 and other terrorist acts from association with Islam, if we can try to understand muslims a group of people (just like us) we can start to develop the respect necessary to maintain peace.