Discussion Questions

What do you think caused the rise of militant Islam?

(This question is just your own personal opinion so my answer might not be the same as yours) I think the rise of militant Islam was caused by the ongoing conflict between the Shiite and Sunni communities. Their differences have grown more and more as time has gone on, arguing over Muslim Law and how Muslims should practice and who should lead them, causing militant Islam and Islam extremist to take things to the next level and rise against each other as well as other religions that disagree with their beliefs. Another factor may be the conflict between the Muslims and Jews over the land of Palestine, causing militant Islam to rise against Jewish communities as well as any other peoples that are backing the Jews.

Describe *Modernization*. What is it? When did it begin? How do the changes brought on by modernization affect religion?

-It's the general process by which societies achieve increased literacy and education, enhanced technologies, self-sustaining economies, greater national unity, and broader participation in politics and government. -It began in England in the 18th century. -The nation-state grows in authority and traditional authority of religion diminishes.

How might science and religion complement and enrich each other?

Science is better able to explore how reality works, whereas religions is better able to explore the ultimate meaning of that reality. "The intention of the Holy Spirit is to teach us how one goes to heaven and not how heaven goes." -Galileo Galilei

Describe the two main branches of Islam.

The Shiite and the Sunni are the two main branches of Islam. After Muhammed's death, Abu Bakr was appointed to take his place in leading the Muslims; however, many people disapproved of this and thought Ali, the adoptive son of Muhammed, should take over. This caused the split, and the Muslims that supported Abu Bakr identified themselves as Sunni and those who supported Ali identified themselves as Shiite. Abu Bakr was eventually killed, and Ali took over.