Reply #5: During the inquisition, Jews did extremely well

[Fredda Weinberg]

in Muslim courts. Of course, you had the occassional messiah who dreamed of restoring Israel's glory, but when Shabbetai Tzvi converted it Islam, it was at the edge of a sword. So I understand the animosity towards zionism - Islam can be tolerant, as long as it is not challenged for political dominance.

As for pan-Arabism, I see nothing of the Maghreb movement ... that kind of nationalism died long ago and has nothing to do with Persian pride in their ancient culture. The unifying thread is the lure of Islamic virtue, which is hardly appreciated by those who embrace western values.

Corrupt power elites? When have we been free of them? The French tried and brought on a reign of terror; the British brought back their monarchy, however constitutionally limited - and the nobility never let power slip from their grasp. Islam attempts to deal with social justice in ways big and small, from the unity of the Haaj to the beheading of a Saudi princess.

I'm a first generation American, and a misfit at that ... I've been offered several opportunities to gain wealth at the expense of my scruples and had no trouble declining - but that's not the western way. On the other hand, I suspect anyone who advocates throwing off the shackles of government - anarchy has not served us well.