Why Is It Only Terror If A Muslim Does It?

The morning news began today with reports that eight (later nine) had been arrested for plotting to kidnap and behead a Muslim soldier. In the early reports, at least, it was not reported that those arrested were Muslims. But the assumption was there. I made it also. Even though I know the large majority of Muslims are peace-loving, I have been brain-washed, along with everyone else, to immediately associate Muslims with terrorism. The propaganda in this area has been extremely succesful.

Of course, the story has many troubling points. First, why would Muslims choose to kidnap a Muslim soldier. And second, what's with all the beheading? I've studied Islamic history, and I have never found cases where beheading was used. In fact, Muslims are commanded not to dismember or disfigure the bodies of our enemies. It may have occured in isolated incidents, but I never heard of it until three or four years ago. It simply is not part of the Islamic way of life.

A second story was also troubling. Someone planted boxes with wires exposed throughout Boston and, I've heard, in other major cities. Terrorism--meaning an attack by Muslims--was immediately suspected. Instead, it was a stunt to advertise a new adult cartoon. I don't understand the connection, or the reasoning behind the prank. I do know, though, that if Muslims had pulled such a stunt, they would not have been released with a slap on the wrist.

So what, exactly, is terrorism? Doesn't spreading fear and disrupting normal operations in a major city count? Or does it only count if you wear a beard, use an Arabic name, and pray five times a day?