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Introspection of Faith in the Act of Terrorism College Introspection of Faith in the Act of Terrorism Threats and acts of terrorism have always been constant throughout history. Technological advancements seem to parallel acts of violence. Terrorism conveys fear. Diffusion of fear in the ambiance is the main goal of terrorism. Application of the term terrorism in today’s society encompasses a wider scope. It does not only cover the successful spread of anxiety, but it also entails exploitation of violent acts.
These feats of violence include vicious methods like bombing, kidnapping and killing people. Religious-based terrorism is done by its executioners in good faith that they are acting to what is necessary for their religious belief (Farmer, 2003). The ideologies formed through interpretation of their doctrines are the common grounds for the foundation of these terrorist groups (Farmer, 2003). The September 2011 bombing of World Trade Center marked a climatic event in history. Al Qaeda, the Islamic terrorist group, achieved worldwide fame upon its linkage to the bombings (Farmer, 2003).
The loss of lives in the attack induced American patriotism and the need to eradicate terrorism. It paved the way for urgent and extensive means in combating terrorism. In spite of the negativity and rage in which the world perceived the attacks, Al Qaeda saw it in a contradictory perspective. For the members of Al Qaeda, there is global declension and there is a need to put today’s society into complete demise (Farmer, 2003). The death of the people who they deem as ‘evil’ is a triumphant moment for Al Qaeda.
According to them, they are acting to please their God by eliminating America which they deem as the “evil power” (Farmer, 2003). On the other hand, although Islam is the most associated religion in terrorism, there are also terrorist groups claiming their values are based on Christianity (Farmer, 2003). One of these is the Ku Klux Clan. The original aim upon the founding of the group is severely deviated from the deeds they performed. From the playful acts and practical jokes in the 1800’s, Ku Klux Clan became one of the notorious racist and moralist groups in history (Farmer, 2003).
They argued that white people are superior and that they are true descendants fitted to inherit the kingdom of God (Farmer, 2003). Consequently, black people and those who do not meet their moral criteria are labeled as targets (Farmer, 2003). Ku Klux Klan virtually rose to power due to its political and economical influence (Farmer, 2003). Unlike Al Qaeda where members are anonymous, KKK’s followers are identifiable public figures and citizens (Farmer, 2003). Both groups managed to gain popularity due to their extreme means.
The deaths contributed by Al Qaeda and KKK exerted huge impact on the world. To this day, both groups are believed to be scattered in chapters all over the world. The analogous state in which Al Qaeda and KKK operate is impenetrable (Farmer, 2003). Both of them assume that people who differ from them is completely on the opposite side of their faith. Furthermore, they hold the strongest belief that sacrificing their lives is a form of salvation. Detestation is best implanted in the minds of followers when it is coated with righteousness (Farmer, 2003).
Al Qaeda and Ku Klux Klan shared the same pretense towards their followers. Both avow of their own divine pursuits while committing ferocious deeds. They stand on firm grounds that the world will be a better place through the acts of violence. Regardless of religion, the end does not justify the means. The act of propagating God through extreme means is reprehensible. Whether it be Islam, Christianity, or any other religion, committing violent acts in the name of faith is eternally inexcusable.
Reference Farmer, B. (2003). American Conservatism: History, Theory and Practice. Newcastle, UK: Cambridge Press.
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