Does Islamic terrorism reflect a clash of civilizations?

Abstract

Islamic terrorism and conflict in the Middle East are putting into perspective the relations between Islam and the West. Events in the Muslim world and in the West continue to highlight the issue of an Islamic threat and the role of Islam in international affairs. Where some have spoken of the need of civilizational dialogue, others have warned of a clash of civilizations. The talk of a clash of civilizations between the Muslim community and the West both in Muslim countries and Western countries has become the order of the day. In the light of this I sought to understand the nature of Islamic terrorism and to find out what lies behind these attacks. I also explored the relations between Islam and the West in the Middle East and North Africa in order to find out whether this advocated clash between Islam and the West is really underway. For the same reason I also focused my attention on exploring Muslim communities in the West, especially Muslim communities in the US post 9/11. The last part of my dissertation will also analyse the different methods used to fight terrorism, the difference between hard liners and soft liners' responses to terrorism and which of these two is more effective to fight Islamic terrorism.