Criticize any aspect of Islam and you’ll likely be called “Islamophobic”. My first reaction on hearing that was, “Yes I am Islamophobic; just as I am Communist-phobic, Christianity-phobic and mysticism-phobic and serial-killer phobic.” But a little reflection led me to reject the term “islamophobic” completely. The term itself is an invalid concept, one that has no rational use because it is inherently irrational. No wonder it’s so popular with the Islamofascists and their apologists.
According to Meriam-Webster, a phobia is “exaggerated usually inexplicable and illogical fear” of something, closed spaces (claustrophobia) etc.
But branding any criticism of Islam “Islamophobia” implies any rejection of Islam is irrational. But wait, that precludes a rational rejection of Islam.
But when you consider the nature of Islam itself, the irrationality of the charge of “Islamophobic” becomes even more ridiculous. Islam itself is inherently irrational, it’s pure mysticism demanding total faith and obedience to an old book and religious authorities.
That’s the exact opposite of a rational, logic and reality-based philosophy, which demands that you think independently, examine the evidence and come to your own conclusions based solely on logic and the evidence. So the charge of “Islamophobia” actually attacks any rejection of Islamic mysticism as irrational, in other words, you’re irrational for rejecting the irrational!
While I acknowledge and respect the moral and political rights of anyone to believe and practice any religion (assuming it is peaceful), I reject Islam (and all religions) on rational philosophical grounds. I don’t fear them, rationally or irrationally.
UPDATE: This just in from CAIR:
“Islamophobia, the fear of Islam, which we fear is the root of events like this has unfortunately become an increasing concern in our society,” said Rabiah Ahmed, council spokeswoman. “It seems to be evolving into an accepted form of racism.”
He’s talking about criticizing Islam. So now opposing an ideology is racism? With all the real hatred, oppression and barbaric violence rampant in Islamic countries you’d think CAIR would have better things to do. That is, if they really cared about rights.
