What do Islamic Terrorists Really Want?

[IdaBriggs]

Be serious for a moment. What do they really want?

[theboss]

1. A little bit of everything

There should also be a category for "To attack western culture imposing itself on traditional Islamic culture." I think this plays a huge role in radicalizing people.

[amber dog democrat]

4. A little respect would go a long way

wouldn't it ?

[theboss]

6. I'm not sure.

I don't see a lot to respect in the culture of Islamic states, particularly Saudi Arabia. From the treatment of women to the treatment of Jews and Christians to the funding of Wahabiism.

Should we respect Muslims as fellow human beings? Absolutely. But should we change our culture so as to not insult them? Well, I don't want my mom mad at me, so no.

[amber dog democrat]

2. everybody knows they hate us cause of our freedoms.

that HAS to be the reason.

[Caution]

3. The bigger question:

Why do we care so much. Less than 400 people died worldwide last year as a direct result of terrorism. Over 2 million people died of AIDS. Terrorism has succeeded beyond any of their wildest imaginations. We as a people are scared shitless of something that really doesn't effect us all that much. They have had one massive success and those responsible must be brought to justice, but to make the "war on terror" into the defining issue in this country is to pander to fear and is a complete and total waste of our time and resources.

[IdaBriggs]

5. You are very smart...

...but the photo opportunity isn't there. Thank you for playing. Next you will be asking for health care for everyone. Silly Caution! How ever will Bush get re-elected if you keep talking SENSE? <sarcasm now turned off -- good point!>

[CrispyQ]

7. They want four more years of BushCo.

[Skinner]

8. I'm locking this.

I don't know what the intent here is, but this could be interpreted as somehow trying to legitimize terrorism by arguing that their goals are legitimate or at least understandible.

First of all, I don't think all terriorists have the same goals, nor do I think that any of their goals could be summed up in one sentence.

But clearly, the defining characteristic of terrorists is their use of terror. Regardless of their goals, their methods (randomly killing innocent people) are not legitimate. The ends do not justify the means.