Is leftism pro-Islam?

[migrendel]

In this matter, I can only speak for myself personally. I do not consider myself to be pro-Islam, for there is a great deal on which I disagree with the Muslim faith. However, I feel strongly in the right to follow the religious beliefs prescribed by one's conscience, and for this reason, I cannot agree with those who oppose Islam or seek to have it legally circumscribed. For many men, and yes, for many women, following the dictates of the faith is a fundamental part of their identity, and something from which they derive their feeling of personal realization. Some might remain unimpressed, but I admire someone who could commit himself to such a rigid life, and I would never take the rights owed to him away.

[migrendel]

I agree with you, aflteich. The new incitement to religious hatred offense is not a piece of legislation which has the salutary effect of protecting the rights of Muslims, who are so often victimized by discrimination. It is an idea which would take away a right to criticize religion that must be cherished in a free society. I see no distinction between this and the law of blashphemy inasmuch as it works to insulate religion from the opposition that every concept which enters the public realm can and should encounter.

[migrendel]

While I'm sure the Home Office has the admirable intention of trying to stop the BNP from burning down Keighley, Bradford, Oldham, etc., the possibility for misconstrual in future years is far too great. I think Evan Harris's proposed alternative is a great improvement, but even that could have a chilling effect on free speech. Ultimately, Britain would be wise to abrogate the common law offense of blasphemy, because it can rear its ugly head again, just as it was revived in 1977, and commit itself to protecting the discourse on the topic of religion.

[migrendel]

In response to your query, dazzleman, I daresay that I understand, but once again, you've found a sinister motive behind the most benign desire to respect religious freedom. I respect Muslims for their unflinching commitment to what they believe, just as I respect evangelical Christians for the intensity of their faith, but in this country with its tradition of legal secularism,  I would oppose any attempt by either group to codify their beliefs in a way that would restrict the freedoms of others. I think that's simple and guileless enough for you to understand.