Islamophobia: Melissa Boigon at TEDxGallatin 2013

Melissa Boigon is a graduate of the NYU Gallatin School of Individualized Study. Her studies focused on the relationship between international political dynamics and prejudices against Muslims in the United States.
About New York University's Gallatin School of Individualized Study
Creativity, flexibility and rigor characterize the academic program of the Gallatin School of Individualized Study. At Gallatin, students have the opportunity to combine the best of a small college experience with the best of a large research university. A Gallatin education is unique. The individualized structure of the program and its relationship to the rest of NYU are part of what makes the school so special. For more information visit gallatin.nyu.edu/
About TEDx, x = independently organized event
In the spirit of ideas worth spreading, TEDx is a program of local, self-organized events that bring people together to share a TED-like experience. At a TEDx event, TEDTalks video and live speakers combine to spark deep discussion and connection in a small group. These local, self-organized events are branded TEDx, where x = independently organized TED event. The TED Conference provides general guidance for the TEDx program, but individual TEDx events are self-organized.* (*Subject to certain rules and regulations)
video produced by Charles Q. Drexler
vfx animation by Michael J. Green
opening music by Gabriel S. Beam
Hyphenate Media
www.hyphenatemedia.com

[@kme321]

As a Muslim I can honestly say I was touched by what she said. That was very kind and open minded of her to come up on stage and speak against the stereotypes of Islam. Very well spoken too.

[@weirdinnit4127]

Me: Can I criticize any ideology? Politically correct liberal: Yes, of course. Me: Any ideology? PC liberal: Absolutely, there are no sacred cows. It's our job to be iconoclastic and attack traditional authority figures like the church and government. Criticize everything. Me: So it's okay to criticize religion? PC liberal: Definitely! Down with religion! Me: So you don't mind if I criticize Christianity and the Bible? PC liberal: Criticize away! Christianity sucks! Fuck the Bible! Me: Can I criticize Mormonism? PC liberal: Yes. Me: Can I criticize patriotism? PC liberal: Yes. Me: Can I criticize capitalism? PC liberal: Yes. Me: Can I criticize communism? PC liberal: Yes. Me: Can I criticize Zionism? PC liberal: Definitely. Me: Can I criticize Islam? PC liberal: Oh my god, no way! Are you some kind of Islamophobic, racist, bigoted hater? It's totally not okay to attack people's beliefs! Just let people believe whatever they want! It's none of your damn business what people believe, they're not hurting you so why hate on their faith? Ah, middle class white liberals, what logical people they are.

[@GenomancerBot]

Dean Keaton So true. It's sad if you think about it though....

[@frenziedscreeching8533]

Aamir Ahmed Some of us do have valid criticisms of Islam. What about the apostasy issue? As I'm sure you're aware, there are a few hadith were Muhammad says that apostates should be executed, every major madhhab (or school of thought) within Islam condones the execution of apostates. Killing apostates isn't some fringe issue, it's part of mainstream Islam and it's something to be very concerned about. Would you call someone a bigot or Islamophobe for criticizing this aspect of Islam? I hope not. Muhammad also said that a woman's word is worth half that of a man's because women have "deficient" minds (Sahih al-Bukhari, 3.48.826). Don't you think that's a problematic part of Islam?

[@jamesharris9536]

Johnny ar-Rafidi I assume you're a Muslim from your picture. You have my utmost respect for being open-mindedly critical of the more abhorrent aspects of your religion. We need more Muslims like yourself.

[@jamesharris9536]

Dean Keaton Exceptionally well said. Expressing my frustrations perfectly.

[@aamirahmed9199]

Johnny ar-Rafidi maybe there are problems,but by no means will I nor anyone I know carry out this. Its simply disgusting and the last thing I'd do...

[@faisalheezan8855]

3 million Iraqis died because of America's "Freedom"... The sad part is that the ones who were responsible of all of the deaths aren't punished and they are living happy lives...

[@DharmProtectionGroup]

yes some might be islamophobes but not all who criticise Islam should be called islamophobes

[@intisarkunje6100]

DharmProtectionGroup True (coming from a Muslim)

[@DharmProtectionGroup]

***** many Muslims just call those who criticise Islam as anti Islam or islamophobes muslims are fooled into believing in Islam give muslims true freedom to leave Islam and many will

[@nurlailasuhri101]

DharmProtectionGroup People who say that they believe in islam but not act like one of them is not a muslim. Islam teach us to respect the others, to avoid all hateful behavior. :D

[@KathRob1994]

nurlaila yusuf Sorry but that's only part of it. The person who made islam made some of it nice to draw people in and deceive them. But alot of the verses are hateful to non believers as well as to women. According to the koran, most of the people in hell are women. And according to the koran, any person who doesn't kill infidels (me) is as bad as a non believer to allah. Treat converts to Islam well. (Kill those who refuse to convert. See 9:5) 9:11 Fight the disbelievers and hypocrites. Be harsh with them. They are all going to hell anyway. 9: Those who refuse to fight for Allah will be treated (along with their children) as unbelievers. 9:85 Fight disbelievers who are near you, and let them see the harshness in you. 9:123. Come to Jesus. He's is the way, the truth and the life. And whosoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have everlasting life Another benefit of Jesus, is that He says there are 'no male nor female in Christ'! (:

[@intisarkunje6100]

Kathryn94 You've got to be joking. Your Bible is the most hateful book ever.

[@markymarkali]

A phobia is an irrational fear. If a group of people constantly enact terrorist activities to instill fear in a population then it is not a phobia! It's trauma!

[@soldier1661]

That doesn't give the right to ostracize, stigmatize and dehumanize an entire group of people who are by in large very peaceful.

[@Public_Domain_Guy]

You make a good point, except that just because a large number of people share common attributes and culture does not make them part of the same group; all Muslims believe in Allah and respect their holy book and most share common physical traits, but far from a majority are committing these acts. So it can be seemed as a phobia because distrusting an entire race for the acts of only some of them is irrational

[@markymarkali]

Propagation of irrationality begets irrationality. Eventually it will reach a psychopath!

[@Theforeveraloneguy]

Marky Mark Ali I'm a muslim and you what I do? I'm a 3D artist. Sounds terrible right?

[@markymarkali]

belthazormn1 Have I mentioned anything about Muslims?

[@bigsukesakurai]

This is how we should think. Objectively. Subjective interpretation brought to the public can only lead to misunderstandings that will be fossilized and soon after, be "common sense". Melissa has demonstrated an exemplary attempt to break the misconceptions the society have towards people of different cultures. Those misconceptions share the same seat as racism, fascism, and ultimately, inherent discrimination. Thank you Melissa for this wonderful talk :)

[@SatiricalStewie]

She made some interesting points an observations but don't believe for a minute it was objective. For instance, asserting that Islam is a religion of peace is in no way objective and actually illustrates her bias

[@bigsukesakurai]

IAMSPORK Rather than being pro Islam, what I can see she was doing is being pro equality. How can she be biased towards a religion that is by historical evidence is at polar opposite of Judaism? And judging from your name, I construe that there's bias in your argument.

[@SatiricalStewie]

Daisuke Sakurai Nowhere did I say she was pro Islam, I said she had a bias, "by historical evidence is at polar opposite of Judaism" makes no sense whosoever, and the only bias Sporks have are that they think they are superior to Forks and Spoons.

[@bigsukesakurai]

IAMSPORK Oh sorry, I missed the 's' in your name D: And by the way, how did you see her as being biased?

[@SatiricalStewie]

Daisuke Sakurai Well I think because there is a danger of Islamophobia in the West and given that Muslims are minorities, there is a tendency of some liberals particularly on the left to counter that by going the other way in a sense. Islam is not a religion of peace for instance, its a religion like any other, people do bad and good things because of it. So I think her pointing out for instance media bias is good and useful but I don't believe she is doing it purely "objectively" and in a scientific manner, she is presenting some facts and ignoring others to support her outlook (i would guess left leaning liberal) which is perfectly fine, I have no issue with that per se but I think I wouldn't want to describe that as objective.

[@islamicreminders5036]

Islam says to be dutiful to your parents, treat women kindly, respect your elders, love your young ones, don't kick out the divorcee women from your home, take care of widows and provide them financially, protect and maintain the financial needs of your wife, help the poor, feed the hungry, spread the greetings of peace, do not oppress others and yourselves, remove the stress from anybody who is stressed, cover the faults of others, be just even if it is against your own soul, speak good to every common man, speak the truth, do not backbite, do not slander, give the slaves their wages before their sweat dries, don't break the promises you made, do not betray, give your wealth in charity, repel evil with good, forbid the evil, promote the good, take care of your neighbours, do not laugh at one another, do not taunt, do not abuse others which non-Muslims call besides Allah, be forgiving, don't get angry, don't be sad, don't abuse, visit the sick, remove any harmful thing from the road and much more good. Nobody will ever let you know these. Some people just know to spread hatred by whatever way they're able to. I hope there are people who are mature enough to study the religion of Islam rather than believing whatever lies the media has to offer. Peace and greetings! ♧

[@RumbleFish252]

Only if you refuse to ignore the verses that contradict just what you are mentioning. But it is a religion with contradicting texts. I will only quote the Quran and Hadith to prove some of your points wrong: *Beating women who you fear might desert you:* "Men are the maintainers of women because Allah has made some of them to excel others and because they spend out of their property; the good women are therefore obedient, guarding the unseen as Allah has guarded; and (as to) those on whose part you fear desertion, admonish them, and leave them alone in the sleeping-places and beat them; then if they obey you, do not seek a way against them; surely Allah is High, Great.” (Qur'an 4:34) *Slavery of women* And whoever among you cannot [find] the means to marry free, believing women, then [he may marry] from those whom your right hands possess of believing *slave girls.* Quran 4:25 *Encouragement of pedophilia* "Such of your women as have passed the age of monthly courses, for them the prescribed period, if ye have any doubts, is three months, *and for those who have no courses (it is the same):* for those who carry (life within their wombs), their period “is until they deliver their burdens: and for those who fear Allah, He will make their path easy." Qur'an 65:4 *Death to Apostates:* Allah’s Messenger said, “Whoever changed his Islamic religion, then kill him.” Sahih al-Bukhari 6922 *Oppression of non-Muslims:* "Fight those who do not believe in Allah, nor in the latter day, nor do they prohibit what Allah and His Messenger have prohibited, nor follow the religion of truth, out of those who have been given the Book, until they pay the tax in acknowledgment of superiority and they are in a state of subjection." (Qur'an 9:29) Muhammad said: “I have been commanded to fight against people so long as they do not declare that there is no god but Allah.” Sahih Muslim 30 Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah, and those who are with him are severe against disbelievers, and merciful among themselves. Qur’an 48:2 *Encouragement of torture:* The [unmarried] woman or [unmarried] man found guilty of sexual intercourse - lash each one of them with a hundred lashes, and do not be taken by pity for them in the religion of Allah , if you should believe in Allah and the Last Day. And let a group of the believers witness their punishment. Quran 24:2 “The punishment of those who wage war against Allah and His Messenger, and strive with might and main for mischief through the land is: execution, or crucifixion, or the cutting off of hands and feet from opposite sides, or exile from the land: that is their disgrace in this world, and a heavy punishment is theirs in the Hereafter” (Qur'an 5:33) Also I love how you say "give the slaves their wages before their sweat dries," like there is nothing wrong there. There's many many more.

[@islamicreminders5036]

+RumbleFish252: Manipulated and twisted verses from the anti-Islamic sites. Do you believe them? Please grow up and do some research. Know Islam through the Qur'an, the authentic ahaadith and the practicing Muslims. Alright. Show me a single verse from the Qur'an that says to kill the infidels. Let's have one - one conversation before jumping on to conclusions. Peace! ♧ PS : I hope you read it. If not follow some authentic websites. And let's continue the debate peacefully. :)

[@RumbleFish252]

***** "Manipulated and twisted verses"? Why do you have to lie? I got all the verses from legitimate websites: quran.com/24:2 corpus.quran.com/translation.jsp?chapter=9&verse=29 Now that I proved you wrong, are you going to keep lying? You can check every single verse I put, they're all legitimate. I only use legitimate neutral sources; I am that sure that Islam can easily be justified as barbaric. Encouraging killing unbelievers and torturing them: [Remember] when your Lord inspired to the angels, "I am with you, so strengthen those who have believed. *I will cast terror into the hearts of those who disbelieved, so strike [them] upon the necks and strike from them every fingertip."* corpus.quran.com/translation.jsp?chapter=8&verse=12 quran.com/8/12

[@islamicreminders5036]

+RumbleFish252 Thank you for your reply. That wasn't a general verse to fight every non-Muslim. It's about a state where Islam is established and the non-Muslims are refusing to pay the taxes there. It doesn't mean to kill them just because they are non-Muslims. No.

[@islamicreminders5036]

+RumbleFish252 Please go through this article: prophetrejectors.wordpress.com/929-at-tauba-of-quran-doesnt-encourage-muslims-to-terrorism/

[@durntok2293]

I am proud of her. The world needs more people like her

[@cyrus5424]

"Islam is a religion of peace" she cant even say it with a straight face.

[@samiraali9552]

but it is

[@mamoruendou3287]

Well duh. What if she is nervous. 🙄🙄

[@knightryder691]

Thank you Melissa! May God bless you!

[@kauaikit]

You mean, may Allah bless you, right? :-)

[@Plox321]

Kit Babcock same thing

[@kauaikit]

Plox321….actually it's NOT the same thing. Which is the error that people who assume they know about or never studied Islam, and think it's the same as the other two ancient Abrahamic Middle Eastern desert invented "death god" ideologies. It's NOT! Islamophobia is a made up word….no such thing exist!

[@Plox321]

Kit Babcock'Allah' is the Arabic word for 'God' so it is the same thing, and your right 'Islamophobia' is a made up word like every word in existence but such thing does exist just like any other form of discrimination

[@OxAO]

Plox321 Allah is the Islamic god. Allah is not even similar to the Christian or Jewish god. example: Muslims don't believe Christ isn't part of the holy spirit. He was just a man or a prophet which Muslims can't read about unless they are in western countries or stated in the Qur'an. This is in Nazareth (this is the Christians Mecca or was for thousands of years) www.israeltoday.co.il/NewsItem/tabid/178/nid/24382/Default.aspx?archive=article_title

[@Iqbal360]

al-queda was created by the US during the 80's

[@shujaman7868]

@Lul de Behanger they did it, to go after the Soviets after they invaded Afghanistan

[@ggresak]

Great speech! I hope this video finds his way to many people, especially Americans. Congratulations Melissa!

[@Gliese380]

Complaining about Islamophobia is no different from complaining about Naziphobia..

[@12PartsofLine]

How nice of her to change the meaning of "Islamophobia" to accommodate 'anything' that is against anything to do with Islam. Nothing like a good old ad hominem defence when losing a debate or trying to prevent one starting in the first place.

[@beeps7]

The girl brings facts and the video still gets 63 dislikes. Nevermind searching for truth, just go by the propaganda you have already been fed.

[@TheTebhes]

Sheria means Quran's orders. She is a liar.

[@Peristerygr]

Neonazis, thugs and spoiled teens never care about facts.

[@Woltato]

This is just someone expressing a load of opinions. Didn't cite any sources to back anything up at all.

[@sitti_dove5476]

What sources you like more? Was she not showing the news clip, the movie clip, and more? Is it not facts to you?

[@operaticxingenue]

This speech is full of many great, timely points and she delivers it concisely and coherently. But might I suggest one thing she might have over looked: she did mention how things being out of context can distort a meaning earlier in the presentation. In the same vein, I'd like to point out that the context of that scene is that, in the 2nd season, tensions were rising between the US gov't and many other Arab nations due to many aggressive measures taken by the US military. In the beginning of the season, they mention the US bombing a handful of cities and there being growing unrest. I don't mention this to debunk her points; I'm just saying perhaps that clip might not have been the best example of Homeland's many prejudices. Perhaps the one scene in season 3 where they decide to straight up racially profile a neighbourhood for their suspect by looking for Arabic sounding names on house deeds?

[@sitti_dove5476]

24 series is more than the homeland security. I watched the first 8 series of which and it always depicts muslim as some sort of terrorist around the world...

[@iaindennis230]

Islamophobia suggests an irrational fear of Islam - after seeing the way Islam behaves and it's beliefs I don't think my fear of Islam is irrational.

[@Lordpoison67]

pssh, your probably explode phobic too damn bigot!

[@AhmedHassan-kl8ew]

"after seeing the way Islam behaves" I’m sorry but which Islam? I would like to meet him...or not. Seriously though the religion is ridiculously diverse and only the really educated and few people know how to connect the dots to have a clear picture, not just "look at" its beliefs and doctrines plenty of which are misunderstood or oversimplified to the point where the whole point behind it is lost and this goes more for Muslims than non Muslims actually because, lets face it, most Muslims just like most Christians hardly ever open the Quran, let alone try to critically study the religion as a whole. This is why I personally find it ludicrous when somebody, anybody states that lets say ISIS are true Muslims and follow the true teachings of the true, real Islam to the t. There is no such a thing and this is no ideology which one can simply "look up" and read a bunch of articles on and then make on opinion of their own.

[@drssimonhottentot]

There are no synagogues in Saudi Arabia. It's theoretically possible that some observance of Judaism may exist in private, for example on US military bases. But it's very unlikely, since the entry of Jews into the kingdom is prohibited, and the practice of any but the official state religion is also constrained by the Saudi government.

[@KOTORDRAGON]

Simon Hottentot but there are pleanty of synagogues in indonesia, the largest muslim country.

[@MrEvrit]

Josh R. there is only one synagogue in Indonesia since the jewish community there is extremely tiny.

[@KOTORDRAGON]

There are atleast two of my personal knowledge, and the point is that they face very little religious scruitiny from their muslim hosts

[@outdoormirrorist3404]

Simon Hottentot Yes, but for some people, stating the truth is somehow a "phobia".

[@kayserimpa]

And your posting shows saudi arabia is a state of dictators of a tribe. Under the dictatorship of saudis suffers not only other religious groups but the own citizens too. i.e the women rights. Btw this saudi dictators are very close ally of the USA.

[@disdoncable]

"Islam is a religion of peace", said the lady, and with that, it's safe to assume that the whole lecture can be dismissed as hogwash. Anyone that thinks "Islam is a religion of peace" needs to have their head examined.

[@alichandrani593]

You have not studied, read, and or had any education on the topic. I would welcome you to be educated, but I doubt you would be willing.

[@cummybot2012]

@@alichandrani593 Thank you

[@indarvishnoi2389]

@@alichandrani593 i also haven't read , studied about it but i have seen what it is like 07:20 it was not false it happens atleast once a week if you don't believe which u won't then search stone pleaters in Kashmir u will know which religion had the maximum participation

[@truthseeker1927]

I live in a muslim country and I can confirm...people in the west who believe islam is a religion of peace are idiots. by promoting this they are only empowering radical islamist regimes under which masses of people and enslaved women are crushed. you people are backstabing so many people who are fighting for freedom in islamic countries especially women, they are the most oppressed

[@ztaylor9891]

There is no such thing as "Islamaphobia". Phobia indicates an irrational fear or hatred of a particular group. My hatred of Islam is perfectly reasonable. My desire to protect myself from extremists is also perfectly reasonable.

[@safisaj]

Excellent job Melissa. I was also raised in a Jewish cultural background and had a stereotyped view of Islam propagated by my high school teachers and the media. This was long before 9/11. Unfortunately many of my family think Homeland is a great show and they love to see Islam as a terrorist religion. ANd yes, you're right, that is a dangerous view to take.

[@dude999642]

I love how her first defense of the Qur'an is to quote the BIBLE - as if she's saying "see, see, see, the Qur'an isn't so bad because THE BIBLE is just as bad!!!" She couldn't defend the calls to violence in the Qur'an (of course), so she just attacked another violent belief system.

[@sassy7434]

i'm not even waiting for people to accept me anymore ...

[@mylord9340]

The word "Islamophobia" is an amorphous word. It is understood by many to be a form of racism but it is also used by some to include any legitimate critique of the religion of Islam or Muhammad. If Muhammad's religion has bad ideas, it is necessary to critique them as should the bad ideas of other religions.

[@andypham6335]

It’s not just Muhammad’s religion. It’s the religion of Adam, Noah, Abraham, Moses, Jesus, and many more.

[@po5960]

anyways, Secretary of Defense Jim Mattis says political Islam should not be tolerated. Things are going to get real interesting with the new administration.

[@indarvishnoi2389]

Well come to the future

[@a.ismaeel]

Still in love with this speech ever since I watched it in 2013. 😍

[@annec9376]

What concerns me about this talk is the inaccurate quote of Oxford's definition of Islamophobia given as: "a hatred or fear of Islam or Muslims, especially when feared as a political force". This significantly overstates the actual definition: "dislike of or prejudice against Islam or Muslims, especially as a political force". "Hatred" and "fear" are very distict from dislike and predjudice.

[@veetour]

Why can't we criticise the ideas in Islam? There are many bad ideas about morality in Islam.

[@KOTORDRAGON]

vee tour there are equally many in Christianity. and theres a difference between criticism and bigotry.

[@sheguftat4372]

vee tour Of course you can, and you should, criticize the ideas in Islam! This is coming from a female Muslim-by-choice and student of Islamic Studies. Islam NEVER forces you to accept its teachings and ideas. Rather, Islam encourages you to read, reflect, question and THEN evaluate for yourself whether it makes sense or not. To illustrate my point: "Then do they not reflect upon the Qur'an, or are there locks upon [their] hearts?" [Qur'an 47:24] and "(This is) a Book (the Quran) which We have sent down to you, full of blessings that they may ponder over its Verses, and that men of understanding may remember." [Qur'an 38:29] Don't confuse what the media and those extremists say with what Islam really says. God knows how deviant and far-fetched their ideas are from those of true Islam. Just for the record, I have never come across immoral ideas in Islam - at least not in the authentic sources! Keep in mind that every Qur'anic Verse and Prophetic Tradition (hadith) has a context behind it, so if you take it out of context, you might misinterpret it. Ma'as-salaamah! :-)

[@KOTORDRAGON]

thank you for being one of the first people to come from a place of understanding instead of blind hate

[@sheguftat4372]

Welcome! It really hurts us Muslims to see Islam being equated with hatred, extremism and terrorism, when it is actually a religion of peace, mercy and justice.

[@Lineage2ErtheiaPvP]

Josh R. nop, they are not, christianity does not say FOLLOW THE BIBLE WORD BY WORD< christians take the bible as examples. QUARAN = must be followed WORD BY WORD by muslims, it s the word of god. understand, u dumb fuck?

[@QuM3]

"Islam is to man what rabies is to a man", Winston Churchill

[@noraishere11]

great work..great findings girl..thumbs up!

[@blazedandconfused477]

+nora abdul Bull shit.

[@cappercastro]

Islam is neither a violent religion or a religion of peace, and it's perfectly acceptable to criticize it or any other ideology/religion.

[@Law9223]

its demonic religion!

[@disdoncable]

What I found most amusing is the part where she talks about Shariah being a benign and simple code for Muslims to live their live by. If she actually knew what Shariah was, she'd know that it endorses the killing or brutal persecution of LGBTs, adulterers, blasphemers, apostates etc. It allows for women to be honour-killed, and certainly prescribes the second-class treatment of non-Muslims. So yes, it is a code for Muslims to live their lives by, a very monstrous and murderous code.

[@Faisal01813]

It's a code of discipline. It never endorses honor-killing, that's an utter nonsense and untrue. Of course LGBT, adulterers, blasphemers must be punished, because these people are responsible for the lack of peace and happiness in families and society as a whole. LGBT goes against the natural law of how human is born, not too many crimes are bigger than that.

[@disdoncable]

Thank you for making my point for me, Mr. Mazhar.

[@Faisal01813]

I don't whether that was a sarcasm. But thanks for responding. Look mate, I don't have any problem with people who are born with a different sexual nature, nor does Islam have either. A male might be attracted to another male, but he must not act upon that, because his act won't be fruitful and it's normal for the society as a whole, as long as a gay does not act upon his or her sexual attraction, Islam is fine with that. Islam is code for maintaining human existence without any disruption, same sex marriage, incest marriage threatens that, hence Islam is against gay marriage. Islam also says this life is a test for afterlife, so if a person have different sexual orientation, he's to accept this as a test and try to live like any other normal human with maintaining chastity. As for blasphemy case, it's punished because it causes disruption in social peace by hurting the feelings of others in the society. If one Muslim have blasphemous thoughts, he or she cannot be punished as long as he has not outspoken his views and haven't caused any social disruption.

[@disdoncable]

Oh no, bud, keep speaking. You're wonderful. I'm just hoping that Melissa Boigon (the speaker in this video) has a chance to look at your comments.

[@Faisal01813]

I'd like more of your views, rather than your sarcasm. Despite how much negative you could be, I'm always open for a discussion. :)

[@12bamish]

Islamophobia is like Naziphobia

[@EvilCommunistChina]

I strongly believe islam is as bad as Catholism and Orthodoxy, However I salute Melissa for standing up for the truth. Indeed those stereotypes punishing innocent people rather than islam. Melissa is has a brave soul to speak out.

[@CharlieSpencers]

Even the word “Islamophobia” is an incredibly manipulative term, implying that a fear of Islam is irrational. We say “antisemitism” because (even though there is little evidence to support it truly being used as such) Judaism is still a religion and can be used in a negative and detrimental way. A fear of race is a phobia, as race alone has little to no bearing on a person’s character, not a genuine fear of an ideology and religion that have proven time and time again that they can be used to devastating and hugely harmful affect.

[@aran-xo1uk]

this polls show differently : ICM Poll: 40% of British Muslims want Sharia in the UK NOP Research: 68% of British Muslims support the arrest and prosecution of anyone who insults Islam; Economist (Pew 2013): 74% who favor Islamic law in Egypt say it should apply to non-Muslims as well. Pew Research (2013): According to an interpretation of this study, approximately 45% of Sharia supporters surveyed disagreed with the idea that Islamic law should apply only to Muslims. WZB Berlin Social Science Center: 65% of Muslims in Europe say Sharia is more important than the law of the country they live in. GfK NOP: 28% of British Muslims want Britain to be an Islamic state WZB Berlin Social Science Center: 65% of Muslims in Europe say Sharia is more important than the law of the country they live in. Pew Research (2013): 81% of South Asian Muslims and 57% of Egyptians suport amputating limbs for theft. Pew Research (2013): 72% of Indonesians want Sharia to be law of the land

[@Nick300wm]

"More than 99% of Muslims ignored the call to Islamic extremism by al Qaeda" Given that there are 1.2 billion Muslims in the World, that's 12 million that didn't; is that meant to be reassuring?

[@magiciansway]

The silent majority are irrelevant.

[@Malak-hg8ef]

Nick300wm “MORE than 99%”. Also, it shows that the problem isn’t with the religion, it’s with SOME of the people.

[@nouraal-hazzani9615]

It's simple and basic. True Islam shows in the kindness of a person. The more respectful and strong will, the more God fearing and caring for others the better you are of becoming a believer and a true follower. The Quran speaks to those whom believes, but mostly those whom don't, because it's a guidance for all. But only few truly do read it them selves and use the dictionary rather than other people's opinions.

[@sunbaa3124]

هذا تذكير جميل. بارك الله فيكم وقبول عبادتك

[@yassaari]

Wow, beautifully spoken and not at all what I thought I was tuning in to watch. It's truly inspirational to find a youth leader such as yourself, empowering not only Muslims but all youngsters to actually use their intellect as opposed to just swallowing what they are told on tv. I hope you continue with you're great work! On behalf of myself and other Muslims, shukran.

[@r.b.4611]

Islamophobia is a nonsense word.

[@hasinaashraf9332]

Is that so ?

[@Law9223]

too bad muslims have truthphobia!

[@YourServantInYahweh]

Not in fear of Islam; just against for what it stands. Quite a difference. I thought it needed to be said.

[@NateDean8D]

Makes me happy to see people like her. There are still people out there who respect others regardless of their religion, culture or race. And by spreading these peaceful messages and pointing out the very powerful media influence, it makes a difference.

[@Other299]

How about we talk about Islamic homophobia.

[@emansakura8258]

Thank you i appriciate your work and presentation . you are a mind lightning lady and i wish you to be an inspration to many researchers and normal people. مع السلامة 😙

[@PMetheney84]

For those who were fooled by this speech I leave you with quotes of the two greatest Philosophers of all times: "Bolshevism combines the characteristics of the French Revolution with those of the rise of Islam… Those who accept Bolshevism become impervious to scientific evidence, and commit intellectual suicide. Even if all the doctrines of Bolshevism were true, this would still be the case, since no unbiased examination of them is tolerated…Among religions, Bolshevism is to be reckoned with Mohammedanism rather than with Christianity and Buddhism. Christianity and Buddhism are primarily personal religions, with mystical doctrines and a love of contemplation. Mohammedanism and Bolshevism are practical, social, unspiritual, concerned to win the empire of the world" - Bertrand Russell

[@ImranAliRathore]

One of the greatest talks on the internet!

[@outdoormirrorist3404]

+Imran Ali Rathore she should give it in Brussels.

[@galahadthreepwood]

NOT

[@corpuscallosum9355]

‏جزاك الله

[@faismasterx]

"You can build a mosque at ground zero when we can build a synagogue in Mecca." OK... so.... according to that brilliant logic, NYC is the religious heart of Judaism. K... makes perfect sense yo

[@amitgupta25121993]

She needs to watch the documentary of vice on sharia law.

[@PerOculos]

So GMO's are a touchy subject, but this is a completely factual talk.

[@MkEpicness]

You're using a tv show, whos views wouldnt be politically correct anyway to illustrate your point. Man who let this girl into ted. The rela clues of how bad they are is in the quran.

[@funandcooltv907]

Hello, Quran is a book revealed to Prophet Muhammad by God. So in that context everything mentioned in it has a context. And to know about a particular verse you have to look at the time and situation when it was revealed. For example Quran speaks about mountains, stars, universe these were in context to acknowledge the people through Prophet Muhammad about the presence of God. Quran message is time less but it does not mean that one just reading Quran verdict about Islam. One thing more the Islam is on the list of media channels, and news papers, so just reading and listening these news channels and then thinking Islam is not peaceful religion, is not good idea, i mean you must read or speak to Muslim scholars they will surely try to address you misconceptions. Cheers!

[@GenomancerBot]

ahus sain Quran was written by a normal (but greedy) man. Quran wasn't ''revealed'' by no god or anything. It was a tool to control common pleb like yourself into submission. Muhammad was a murdering rapist warmonger. This is a fact: he was ordering his army to rape non-islamic women, he murdered 1000 of people in his greed to spread his empire, and he raped a 9 year old girl.

[@funandcooltv907]

Geno Bot lets assumed for a moment that Quran was written by a greedy man than how come it was mentioned in quran about the shape of earth, about the process of child birth inside the womb of mother, how come it talks about the boat of noah which is discovered by scientist in turkey, how come it is mentioned in quran the moon light is reflected light of sun not its own, how come quran talk about the motion of earth, how come it talk about galaxies, how come it talked about river with different taste of water which never get mixed with each other which scientist discovered in south africa recently. So what i am saying is that these things have come to knowledge just few centuries ago how come Prophet Muhammad was able to know these things. If Muhammad asked His followers to rape give me reference of book and prove with fact. When Prophet Muhammad came to mecca on that time the girls were buried alive when they were born just because they were girls i mean such type of ignorance was their and still today this practice happens in india where girls are abortioned after knowing through ultrasound that the child in mother womb is girl. I mean if you fairly could point out any thing against the humanity it will give chance to show you glimpse of reality, please, but with referee from quran because islam is Quran and Saying of Prophet Muhammad.

[@funandcooltv907]

Geno Bot quote the reference of book from book of islam in which those things about Prophet Muhammad are mentioned which you have mentioned. Certainly you can not. Just quote reference from books of Islam which Muslims read, which is against humanity. Please

[@GenomancerBot]

ahus sain Do you want short proof of how evil islam is, or the long version (long version will still be way too short and only a 1% of everything I can say about islam and it's warmongering followers)? "Mohammed is God's apostle. Those who follow him are harsh to the unbelievers but merciful to one another" Quran 48:29 Islam is ideology of hate. That is a simple fact. Just like the fact that Earth is round, so is the fact that islam brainwashes it's followers into doing evil things. I don't blame you for being a bad person. It's islams fault.

[@seninha12321]

blinded by political correctness

[@josephkim6038]

It's not a misrepresentation if it's a direct quote from the quran and the context of the quote doesn't change its intended meaning at all.

[@pluggee]

Please address the following passages for violence: 2:191 (kill them where you overtake them - offensive not defensive); 2:216 (you are enjoined to fight and it's good for you); 3:151 (cause terror for non-Muslims); 4:56 (those who disbelieve you will drive into a fire); 4:25 (Allah prefers you go out and fight); 8:7 (eliminate disbelievers, rejects unarmed way); 8:12 (behead disbelievers); 8:39 (fight them); 8:65 (entreaty to war); 8:67 (entreaty to massacre rather than have captives); 9:5...

[@theatheist7840]

Politically correct at its finest.

[@AnneX1133]

Melissa you are amazing. Thank you so much for doing the right thing.

[@Lord_Pilaf]

If you dont know what Islamophobia is and dont want to watch this video, read some of the comments: you'll find out pretty quick.

[@nurpatria]

I'm from Indonesia which has the largest muslim population in the world and I'm myself a muslim. But we are so diversed in so many ways by race, language, tribe, and religions and somehow we are able to maintain peaceful daily life. That is why it is so hard for me as to why phobias to people of other backgrounds could exist in other parts of the world.

[@marcostation1000]

Islamophobia is those who know Islam and talk about it....

[@descendrion3582]

+marco mac so they would be muslims right? lol.

[@marcostation1000]

No because Muslim cant question the Quran and to undestand something you have to be able to question. Is like if you want to learn medicine but when you dont undestand something or you know is wrong you can not question it or change it. You cant undestand this concept because you are Muslim too.

[@descendrion3582]

the quran says"will ye not use your minds?"

[@marcostation1000]

The Quran also say, kill all non beleivers.... The earth is flat. Semen comes from the ribs. Mahoma was deceive by Satan.

[@descendrion3582]

please quote all of these. 2/4 of these are bullshit and your pulling them out of nowhere

[@stefan4159]

Islamophobia isn't a thing. Saying that people are mentally ill because they dislike a religion is stupid.

[@rainmaker6261]

Absolute tolerance results in the absolute destruction of tolerance. This is an old bit of philosophy but it remains true. Absolute tolerance by necessity tolerates absolute intolerance, thus leading to its demise. Thus tolerance cannot always be ideal. We must not tolerate intolerance. Islam is not a belief system of tolerance. Therefore it does not deserve ours.

[@samantha1bella]

When local Imam's say annihilate the Jews I consider that a macro aggression. When people like Melissa Boigon distort reality I consider that a macro aggression.

[@TajamalGhumman]

A beauty with a more beautiful heart. God bless you. Lots of love and respect from Pakistan.

[@MaoRuiqi]

Symbolic: I just became the 912th dislike. Melissa Boigon seems to suffer from an extreme case of cognitive dissonance of the first order. Please note Friedrich Nietzsche's teaching: "Whoever fights monsters should see to it that in the process he does not become a monster. And if you gaze long enough into an abyss, the abyss will gaze back into you." She is the embodiment of the very monster he seeks to destroy. in short, she's entered the abyss of self-hate, the jet-fuel of angst-driven SJWs. I give her another 5 years more of Islam before her dissonance will resolve itself into atheism.

[@TheBurg1207]

Dislike number 1000 right here bro.

[@mazinkhalid5977]

Hahahahaha u such a hater u fucking cracksr

[@Somnivers]

You should study Islamophobia phobia.

[@kymcarter589]

People should make up their own mind about the ideology of islam. One can Google 'controversial quran passages' and then look these passages up online.

[@joesixpack8166]

Who does her hair, Roto Rooter?

[@leary4]

Well gosh hipster chick didn't ya forget to mention she was too insane to stand trial?

[@sam7748]

Yo, Trump is insane but he's the prez.

[@Peristerygr]

@@sam7748 He voted Trump.

[@MrPooooohead]

As someone from a Muslim family and has read and studied Islam, I see what she's saying, but it's not entirely the whole truth. Beirut, Lebanon is probably the most liberal countries in the middle east, but it has a large Christian population and so is not run by purely sharia. Now there are many types of sharia law that have been implemented over the historical course of Islam, with it being a little more liberal in the majority of the early years. However, the type of Sharia law implemented now in so called "moderate" Islamic countries actually have some extreme and intolerant aspects. Obviously I won't get started on the lack of equal rights in Saudi arabia as everyone knows these. However, she didn't mention that the majority of Islamic countries criminalise LGBT people with either lashes, stoning, imprisonment and fines and they obviously have no equal rights. Not to compare one thing to another, but punishment for adultery is the same. You would be surprised by the amount of moderate Muslims not in the West and even a lot in the West do not question this. This is not peaceful or tolerant. I'm not saying that Islam is an intolerant and violent religion inherently, it's not. However we have to admit there are extreme and intolerant interpretations within so called moderate Islamic countries that are actually utilized within their governments. Yes you can say the same with some people with orthodox Christian views in the west, but these are not implemented within western governments thankfully.

[@reedkafer5124]

Everyone has been identifying different acts of Islamophobia, but how is anyone planning to educate people and bring a stop to all the prejudice>

[@DJmusicArtyom]

Islamophobia is just a word for SJWs to denounce someone's criticism of Islam, whether that criticism is well-delivered or poorly. Either way, you can (according to SJWs) simply debunk someone's argument by calling them an Islamophobe and relating that to calling them a racist.

[@MrMoOomoOo91]

Islamophobia is a new form of fascism that is with no doubt targeting innocent Muslims.

[@MrMoOomoOo91]

Islamophobia is just like Nazism they are both fascist ideologies with some weak justifications for their fascist behavior.

[@ronniehopper2726]

didn't this woman trying to join Isis

[@inferno0020]

The problem about so-called Islamophobia is that our intellectuals, left and right alike, reject to acknowledge that Islam has never been a centralized faith or religion. When a lot of Muslims only regard Islamic faith as a way of life, political Islam has always been represented as the only "true Islam" by both Left-wingers and Right-wingers.

[@mizchocolatey]

Your truly amazing! Thank you

[@tubeberk08]

If there are underlying fears towards Islam, then one must ask whose fault is that? I will continue to observe and come to my own conclusions without being lectured. This person wants to lay a guilt trip on the shoulders of the West because we cast doubts that Islam is merely a religion of peace. I wish it were that simple, but its not. Muslims are good people, its the radicals that need lectured.

[@NormalIsGreat]

Thank you very much Melissa boigon. You did an amazing job and that must have taken you a whole lot of courage. Thank you again.

[@montyscooter1965]

More duplicity. At 3:11 she shows an old testament passage from the bible. But forgets to mention that there was a New Testament, a reformation, an enlightenment, a separation of church and state, secular legislation that does not adhere to religious principles.

[@deepsareen1]

While all Religious ideologies can be equally harmful what separates some from other is how all-pervasive these are (say in art, food, dressing, commerce, governance and education) and the absoluteness demanded of (and accorded by) its followers.

[@LackaLackster]

It's an illusion that Islam is inherently violent. That's a direct quote. How is that direct quote telling the audience that Islam is not inherently violent!? Please put it in context for me please, since you think we are taking it out of context.

[@noahpen188]

"Slay the idolaters wherever they may be" Americans captured by pirates in 1807 told John Adams our religion says to do this-so this has nothing to do with US intervention. All islamic states with islamic law persecute Jews, gays and women.

[@renedavilla6019]

My "Islamophobia" is just "fear of being exploded or burned alive", like on crusades.

[@mizchocolatey]

-.-

[@antoniopooper]

Actually, Satanists are more peaceful than Muslims. When was the last time you heard about Satanists killing people for leaving their religion? Or for drawing an insulting cartoon?

[@hodzal5258]

are you scared of me?

[@hodzal5258]

Renê Davilla I never took chemistry

[@hodzal5258]

Tiger TV​ 😂😂 oh let me educate u Anti-Muslim demagogues love to talk about this weird, so called, rule that permits Muslims to lie to spread Islam. I had never even heard of it until I was accused of it by someone in a discussion once. The basic idea, according to them, is that if any Muslim ever denies being a blood thirsty lunatic engaged in perpetual war against the West, they must be lying. Muslims are simply presumed guilty, and if we profess innocence that is only further evidence of our guilt. It should be fairly clear to any rational being that lying to spread a religion is nonsensical. If I lie to you about what Islam is and you convert I haven't spread Islam because what you have accepted was a lie. These constant stream of Islamophobes carping on about how Muslims are allowed to lie to non-Muslims whilst appealing to something called “taqiyyah” (also spelled, “takiya” and “taqiyya”) also end up convincing the average joe non muslim about this myth Rather than relying on shoddy hate sites/Christian missionaries to educate us about taqiyyah we shall rely on SCHOLARLY authority - largely in the form of R. Strothmann’s relevant section in “Shorter Encyclopaedia of Islam” (by H.A.R. Gibb and J.H. Kramers) and Cyril Glasse’s Concise Encyclopedia of Islam What is “Taqiyyah”, “Takiya”, “Taqiyya”? This term is spelt variously; “taqiyyah”, “takiya” or “taqiyya”. “Takiya (A.), caution, fear (see glossarium to Tabari S.V. T-K-A) pr kitman, “disguise” is the technical term for dispensation from the requirements of religion under compulsion or threat of injury.” [1] “Taqiyyah (From the root word waqa “to safeguard”; “self-protection” and hence “dissimulation [in order to protect oneself]”).” [2] So, taqiyyah (takiya, taqiyya) is concerning dissimulation due to force - i.e. when an individual is forced to conceal. Sadly, Islamophobes - in order to obtain an unchecked platform and/or demonise Muslims - have misapplied this term in their exaggerated claims of “Muslims are allowed to lie to the unbelievers”. At what level of force is Takiya (Taqiyyah, Taqiya) justified? “But an individual is not justified in takiya nor bound to hidjra [emigration] if the compulsion remains within the endurable limits, as in the case of temporary imprisonment or flogging which does not result in death” [1] So, this make a mockery of the Islamophobes’ general suggestions of “Muslims are allowed to lie to the unbelievers” as even under threat of imprisonment and flogging Muslims are not justified in takiya. The level of force which justifies oneself in takiya is that of an unbearable level. Takiya (taqiyya, taqiyyah) and the type of lies… One may ask, what type of “disguise” is allowed under takiya (taqiyyah, taqiyya)? Let’s be clear about takiya (taqiyyah, taqiyya); “The principle of dissimulation of one’s religious beliefs in order to avoid persecution or imminent harm, where no useful purpose would be served by publicly affirming them.” [2] So takiya (taqiyyah, taqiyya) is not used to convert folk to Islam nor is it used in Islamic text books or anything of such a nature. It is simply a form of concealment used to avoid persecution! For further clarity, we are not talking about general, everyday fibs here, thus the ethical question of dishonesty is bypassed: “The ethical question whether such forced lies are nevertheless lies, such a forced denial of the faith nevertheless a denial, is not put at all by one “who conceal himself” as he is not in a state of confidence which would be broken by lies or denial.” [1] Sadly, our Islamophobic counterparts attempt to convince the gullible that takiya (taqiyyah, taqiyya) allows Muslims to lie (or conceal) about aspects of their faith (Islam) as well as lie in general. Famous case of Taqiyyah (Taqiyya, Takiya) A common example of takiya (taqiyyah, taqiya) involves a Muslim (Ammar B. Yasir, a companion of the Prophet Muhammad, p) being forced to worship idols and insult the Prophet of Islam. [1] [3] The level of force the polytheists applied on Ammar bin Yasir can be imagined by Amr bin Maymoon’s statement, “The polytheists tortured Ammar with fire”. [3] “Abu Ubaydah bin Muhammad bin Ammar bin Yasir said: The polytheists seized Ammar and they did not let him off until he was forced to insult the Messenger of Allah and say good things about their deities” [3] Ammar bin Yasir told Prophet Muhammad (p) of what he was forced to say. “The Prophet (p) said: “Say it again if they ask (i.e. force) you to do so”.” [3] So, in order to avoid such torture the Prophet allowed Ammar bin Yasir to use “taqiyya” If Jesus (pbuh) had done the same, our Christian friends would have lauded it as an act of piety and mercy. Instead we see Islamophobes exaggerating this form of concealment in order to demonise Muslims. It’s a crazy old world! Taqiyyah and the Shi’ites (Shia) "It is, however, associated most closely with the Shi’ites who practiced taqiyyah systematically and widely during periods of Sunni domination to hide their beliefs from Sunni Muslims. "[2] Obviously, if these Shi’ites felt they would have been persecuted for publicly announcing their shia beliefs, one can understand why they concealed (used taqiyya) their beliefs. Is taqiyyah allowed in the Quran? Our Islamophobic friends jump up and down in joy whilst proclaiming taqiyyah (taqiyya, takiya) is allowed in the Quran. Let’s analyse (via scholarship) the two Verses they cite. Quran 16:106 and taqiyyah (taqiyya, takiya)? Whoso disbelieveth in Allah after his belief - save him who is forced thereto and whose heart is still content with the Faith - but whoso findeth ease in disbelief: On them is wrath from Allah. Theirs will be an awful doom. [Pikthal translation of the Quran 16:106] The reason for this verse is unanimously said to have been the case of Ammar b. Yasir, whose conscience was set at rest by this revelation when he was worried about his forced worshipping of idols and objurgation of the Prophet. [1] The story of Ammar bin Yassir is relayed earlier (see above). Tabari says on Sura 16:106 (Tafsir, Bulak 1323 sqq.24.122): If any one is compelled and professes unbelief with his tongue, while his heart contradicts him, to escape his enemies, no blame falls him on him, because God takes his servants as their hearts believe” [1] The Quran’s (16:106) allowance of uttering disbelief whilst under extreme force is hardly justification for the outrageous smears the Islamophobes propagate. Quran 3:28 and taqiyyah (taqiyya, takiya)? Let not the believers take disbelievers for their guardians in preference to believers. Whoso doeth that hath no connection with Allah unless (it be) that ye but guard yourselves against them, taking (as it were) security. Allah biddeth you beware (only) of Himself. Unto Allah is the journeying. [Pikthal translation of the Quran 3:28] This Verse instructs Muslims to not take the unbelievers as patrons over the believers but does allow for this in the case of fear. Tuqatan is used here (a verbal noun of taqiyyah). Tafsir Jalalayn explains: “unless you protect yourselves against them, as a safeguard (tuqātan, ‘as a safeguard’, is the verbal noun from taqiyyatan), that is to say, [unless] you fear something, in which case you may show patronage to them through words, but not in your hearts” [Tafsir Jalalayn - 3:28] It is hardly something Islamophobes can latch onto as evidence for their demonization of Muslims as this Verse allows concealment (taqiyyah, taqiyya, takiya) in the case of fear (i.e. to avoid persecution). We are essentially back to where we started as initially stated on taqiyyah: Takiya (A.), caution, fear (see glossarium to Tabari S.V. T-K-A) pr kitman, “disguise” is the technical term for dispensation from the requirements of religion under compulsion or threat of injury. [1] Taqiyyah (From the root word waqa “to safeguard”; “self-protection” and hence “dissimulation [in order to protect oneself]”). [2] Lying about the Prophet Muhammad (p) Islamophobes, in an attempt to obtain an unchecked platform, do suggest Muslims misinform (“use taqiyya”) about the Prophet Muhammad (p). This is an utter absurdity as it is a grave sin for a Muslim to misinform about the Prophet Muhammad as the Prophet stated: “Whoever lies about me intentionally shall take a place for himself in hell” (al-Adhkar (y102), 510-12) [4] In fact, presenting misinformation about the Prophet (p) was considered an extreme offense amongst early Muslim communities: Habib ibn ar-Rabi’ said that it is disbelief to alter his [Prophet Muhammad’s] description and its details. The one who does that openly is an unbeliever. He is asked to repent. [5] So much for the Islamophobes claims of “Muslims using taqiyyah” regarding Prophet Muhammad (p). Conclusion Taqiyyah (taqiya, takiya) is not something to be writing home about. To use this practice to brandish Muslims as untrustworthy (or to demonise them) is unscholarly and unjust. If you do encounter an anti-Muslim bigot on the internet crying “taqiyya” (there are plenty about), please do send him/her to this group to be educated

[@arianadaiyan3166]

Islam literally translates to "peace" in Arabic. I dont know how many of you have actually read the quran, but i have, and I can tell you that it is actually in essence the same basic text as the bible. I'd say the most differences lay in the fact that Islam heavily emphasizes hygiene (surprise!). Anyways, the truth of the matter is that there are extremists in Islam right now, as there have been in Christianity in the past (example: slavery and Jim Crow laws were supported using verses of the bible in America). It is up to us as a society to condemn and eradicate those particular extremists that act as a threat to domestic security.

[@canadianaja8030]

The word "phobia" means: "an extreme or irrational fear of or aversion to something." Wikipedia has the following under "phobia" A phobia is a type of anxiety disorder, defined by a persistent fear of an object or situation. The phobia typically results in a rapid onset of fear and is present for more than six months. The affected person will go to great lengths to avoid the situation or object, typically to a degree greater than the actual danger posed. If the feared object or situation cannot be avoided, the affected person will have significant distress. An example given of "phobia" Agoraphobia is often associated with panic attacks.Usually a person has phobias to a number of objects or situations. Agoraphobia is an anxiety disorder characterized by symptoms of anxiety in situations where the person perceives the environment to be unsafe with no easy way to get away.

[@mudwrestler6847]

MY "PHOBIA" IS EXTREME, BUT HARDLY IRRATIONAL.

[@montyscooter1965]

This child has no idea.

[@mazinkhalid5977]

Please please tell me why u always hatin

[@thelaurels13]

"This child" is far more educated than an ignorant no mark like you!

[@montyscooter1965]

How would you know how educated anyone is? Try not to be as illogical as the women on this video.

[@thelaurels13]

You should try and stop being brainwashed by media! Stop following the crowd and think for yourself. Are you really that ignorant.

[@montyscooter1965]

The media portrays Islam and Muslims how? As murderous monsters? No Tinkerbell they state ad nauseam that there are moderates or radicals and Islam is the "religion of peace". So again you show just how dimwitted you actually are. Listen my little piss pot why don't you do everyone a favour and fuck off. I have a masters in international relations and I've forgotten more today than you've ever learnt in your spotty lifetime.

[@skymeson]

I would describe the talk as barely researched, poorly conceived, shallow, nonsensical rambling of a muslim apologetic. This talk lacked intellectualism, it lacked organization, it lacked factual representation. Not really sure what qualifiers her to give a TedX talk other than she happens to be a graduate student. The talk felt more like an informal brown bag talk than a TedX talk. She deserves a big FAIL for wasting 10 minutes of my life.

[@Interistapazzesco]

Once in a while, you will find a beautiful flower from among the the cactus

[@tasnifrahman2486]

Religion in this sense means a set of beliefs, whatever they may be. Debates aren't only a part of Western secularism, it is encouraged in Islam as well. That's why I try my best to do my bit without hurting anyone's sentiments, mine included. As for the verse you quoted, although the wrong verse number again, it is present in the Qur'an, and if I was to defend it, I'd have to study about it a little more. But the way I see it, it's not much different from the foreign policies in many countries.

[@13Steppen]

why can't we up-vote the comments that oppose Islam?

[@waleed_al_waleed]

You my lady, I salute you :)

[@mbanana23456]

Flagged so many islamaphobic comments

[@seninha12321]

***** I'm sure they're all just so full of hate and not logical at all huh? They're disgusting racists in disguise, huh? Islam is perfect and has no flaws, huh?

[@seninha12321]

***** hahahahahaha loved it!

[@mbanana23456]

+An any mouse i'm simply complying with the youtube terms of services

[@oliviaLOVEShenry]

There's no such thing as 'islamophobia' it's a neologism to stop people criticizing Muslims and/or Islam.

[@invidia44]

Its rare to see a Ted talk this bad.

[@eg626]

pssh ted talks are a joke, bunch of rich white people just making money on whats trendy

[@scottski02]

These are Tedx talks. They don't count.

[@rifat_syed]

Well said!

[@eye.cu2b321]

Not everybody interpret Islam the same way as she does (with peace). today is 23-3-2016 Brussel.

[@yuyuflikesfud9735]

I don't understand why some of you click on this video and watch it, gain knowledge and just deny it and say what this woman is saying is false. I dare you to go up on stage and talk about why Islam is a TERRIBLE religion and how we need to destroy it. But what's the point of watching these videos if all you want to deny what they say? I mean, non-Muslims in a Muslims hating country say otherwise and you have the guts to say she's wrong? This woman has clearly done research unlike most people here.

[@xados-49]

To see if there is in-fact anything she can say to dissuade my opinion. And so far I have encountered exactally 0 people that could convince me that Islam is anything other than a religion of Madness.

[@yuyuflikesfud9735]

Xados - It's only a religion of madness because that's what everyone believes it is by the news and what has been happening lately.

[@yuyuflikesfud9735]

Xados - It's already peaceful except those terrorists are like the KKK, they might believe in something but it doesn't mean it's right. Don't judge a whole group by the actions of a few.

[@joesixpack8166]

+Yuyuf Likes Fud! You and this naive, clueless woman in the vid can deny it, but the _truth_ is that Islam is a fascist misogynistic homophobic medieval ideology masquerading as a religion, and it belongs in the 7th-century, not 2016.

[@yuyuflikesfud9735]

***** That's only YOUR opinion on the religion. But in fact, almost none of that you said was true (except for the homophobic part except I'm pretty sure not every Muslim is scared of the gay, just don't support it) and there's religion all over the world, why is ours the only one that's stupid and belongs in the 7th century? And besides, I have been learning about Islam my entire life. You can't just say I know nothing about it when you saw it on Fox News.

[@masteryh]

lol? i am a muslim and have been for 19 years. I can confirm to you, without doubt, that your statement is incorrect. Peace

[@marvelousmarvelxx3889]

Ik that you are a poser

[@HueyPPLong]

"nothing violent about sharia law" what about apostasy?

[@Sifat_Rashid]

apostasy what?

[@aslanhameed585]

Thank you

[@besmb-yo8qs]

Sam Harris said himself that we need to distinguish between how we treat ideas and how we treat people. I think thats well said. As with the bible, there are of course violent verses in the quraan and hadith. Theres no denying, also, that shariah law(not just the capital punishment) is intolerant. I dont think, howewer, that all muslims favor shariah, although that def may be the case amongst many. Some muslims are secular-minded and I highly doubt that they therefore have much of interest in shariah. Some are even atheists and dont really believe in islam as a religion, but embrace the cultural aspects of islam.