But blaming Islam is a simple answer, easier and less controversial than re-examining the core political issues and grievances that resonate in much of the Muslim world: the failures of many Muslim governments and societies, some aspects of U.S. foreign policy representing intervention and dominance, Western support for authoritarian regimes, the invasion and occupation of Iraq, or support for Israel's military battles with Hamas in Gaza and Hezbollah in Lebanon. (p. 136-137). John L. Esposito
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When people blame Islam for terrorism, they ignore the political issues which are the real root of the problem. They are quick to point out that Muslims don't hate America; they hate "Western foreign policy." It's true that Muslims don't really hate Americans. They hate Western foreign policy which they feel has led to many injustices against Muslims, who are not their enemy. But, blaming Islam for terrorism is one of the most dangerous forms of criticism of Islam, because it makes Muslims afraid they will be targeted by Muslims who hate America and Israel or whatever other country Muslims feel has wronged them.

Source: Who Speaks For Islam?: What A Billion Muslims Really Think

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More Quotes By John L. Esposito
  1. But blaming Islam is a simple answer, easier and less controversial than re-examining the core political issues and grievances that resonate in much of the Muslim world: the failures of many Muslim governments and societies, some aspects of U.S. foreign policy representing intervention and dominance,...
  2. Critical to the fight against global terrorism is an ability to move beyond presuppositions and stereotypes in our attitudes and policies and to form partnerships that transcend an "us" and "them" view of the world. (p. 135)
  3. Interestingly, the more Americans report knowing about Muslim countries, the more likely they are to hold positive views of those countries. (p. 155)
  4. As we have seen in the data, resentment against the West comes from what Muslims perceive as the West's hatred and denigration of Islam; the Western belief that Arabs and Muslims are inferior, ; and their fear of Western intervention, domination, or occupation. (p. 141)
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