Article critique - Essay Example

Submitted: Article Critique on ‘Muslim Women’ • Is the argument logical? The argument is quite logical as the presents logical, referenced and reasonable information and evidence to back up the claim made. They give examples to highlight points made which are based on history, literature, Sharia law and societal norms as opposed to personal feelings and bias.• Is the text well-organized, clear, and easy to read?The text is well organized, clear, understandable and well-structured. The author uses an introductory paragraph to introduce the reader to the subject effectively.

They then make their argument by informing the reader of historical and relevant facts as a background from which to present the argument. Paragraphs are used to structure the arguments and to give a sequence to each point made. The language is quite concise and simple to understand.• Are the authors facts accurate?The author’s facts appear to be accurate. They back up each claim by presenting factual information about laws and literature which exist and are pertinent to the topic.• Have important terms been clearly defined?

Not all important terms have been clearly defined. There is some assumption on the part of the author that the reader of the text is already familiar with the subject of Islamic tradition and culture to some extent. For example, terms such as ‘Sharia law’ and Gallup poll’ are not clearly explained but are used within the text. These terms are quite specific and require elaboration for those unfamiliar with such terminology.• Is there sufficient evidence for the arguments?There is sufficient evidence for the arguments.

Each point is very well backed up by reference to existing laws, literature, examples, quotations and arguments for powerful individuals in the field and supporting evidence of all kinds.• Do the arguments support the main point?Yes the arguments support the main point as they are highly relevant to the subject matter. By arguing and highlighting various differences in Muslim men’s and women’s rights under Islamic law and offering examples, this supports the overall claim that there is an injustice in this area which needs to be addressed.

• Is the text appropriate for the intended audience?The text is appropriate for the intended audience for the most part. It offers a basic summary of the issue with some background and historical and political context and it is explained in a clear and structured way. However, there is room for improvement in that some terms should be more clearly explained. • Does the text present and refute opposing points of view?The text does present some opposing points of views. For example, it offers the perspective of some Muslim women who are happy to wear traditional clothing and actually feel empowered by it.

• Does the text help you understand the subject?To an extent, the text helps me to understand the subject. It gives a background and societal context to the argument which is very helpful and it offers case studies and examples to highlight the points. In this way, it is quite simple to comprehend. • Are there any words or sentences that evoke a strong response from you? What are those words or sentences? What is your reaction?One particular sentence evoked a strong response from me; “In the United States, many Muslim girls and women choose to wear hijab”.

I found this sentence to be very surprising. The author states this sentence in the first paragraph immediately after explaining the laws which dictate women’s behavior, clothing and expectations. This was a very sudden and unexpected change of pace in the argument and my reaction was one of surprise and confusion.• What is the origin of your reaction to this topic? When or where did you first learn about it? Can you think of people, articles, or discussions that have influenced your views?

How might these be compared or contrasted to this text?My reaction to this topic comes primarily from media representations of the tpic such as movies, TV adverts and public images. Personally, I already had a sense that Muslim women are extremely oppressed, subservient and shy. I also perceived Muslim men to be quite domineering and demanding towards their spouses in this respect. These views are somewhat supported by this text.• What questions or observations does this article suggest? That is, what does the article make you think about?

This article makes me think about what these laws and traditions mean in a greater context. I appreciate the traditional and religious aspects of the laws but at the same time women are clearly being treated differently and this is not justified in any way. It also makes me appreciate living in a society which does not force me to act or behave in a certain way which may be against my own personality, interests or preferences.