Even in the present times, there is still the lingering concern for the failure of the Western World in properly understanding Islam. There are still significant number of westerners who mistakenly associate the faith with polygamy, fatalism, violence and fanaticism. This article is a list of the top 10 false notions about Islam in the Western World.
1. Most terrorists are Muslims
This is by far the most erroneous notion about Muslims and Islam. Muslims are unfairly being typecast by many as plain terrorists. It is very disturbing that we label as hate crime those violent attacks perpetrated by non-Muslims. However, if the violence involves a Muslim suspect, it is immediately defined as terrorist attack.
2. The Islam faith proliferated by the edge of the sword
There is no proof or any record in our history that can support these claims of forced conversion to Islam during the ancient times. What we can observe is the setting up of synagogues and private churches in non-Muslim communities which led to the conversion of erstwhile non-Muslims because of the positive treatment that they received from Muslims.
3. Unfair treatment of women by Islam
While there are some Islamic states that implement harsh treatments and injustices to their women, these are not supported by any teachings of Islam. In fact, most of these abuses are born out of cultural diversities and are, in most cases, run counter to the teachings and doctrines of Islam.
4. Muslims are barbaric and savage when they engage in war
This is far from the truth and Muslims adhere to strict and acceptable conventions of modern warfare. In fact, they observe 10 tenets of modern engagement that reflect their concern for human life and respect for human dignity.
5. Prophet Muhammad practice pedophilia
Marrying at an early age was the norm during the time of Prophet Muhammad and this practice was not an invention of Islam. Historical records will show that the marrying age of girl is during puberty and such practice does not make one pedophile as it is an accepted practice during ancient times not by their religion but by tradition.
This is just one of those conspiracy theories that abound in our society today. This legend is all pure crap as this will definitely run counter to the Hippocratic Oath of medical practitioners and that is to save lives. Further, if there is indeed a cure for cancer, would it not be illogical for a pharmaceutical company to defer the release of a sure fire cash cow.
In its absolute terms, the statement is correct. However, we have to qualify this assumption by taking into account several variables that define the overall profile of modern society. It is essential that we look at the prevalence of cancer cases with the context of increasing population and life expectancy. Further, with the advent of modern technology, we are now witnessing the transfer and sharing of ideas and information. This leads to heightened awareness on the latest events and developments related to cancer.
Not true. Both male and female can have breast cancer although the incidence is much higher in women while cases in male are stilled considered rare. It is estimated that 2000 American men are afflicted by breast cancer annually.
This is a medical myth and it is amazing that a lot still believes that such modality can do more harm than good for the cancer patient. This misconception may be traced back during those past times where medical practitioners could do no more than diagnose the disease and of which surgeries are entirely exploratory.
A positive attitude is indeed essential in the overall management of the disease. It is the reason why medical practitioners and staff maintain a pleasant and light demeanor when dealing with their cancer patients. However, it is just one element of the overall treatment approach.
