Week 5 Journal Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words - 3

Week 5 Journal - Essay Example All these countries have the highest number of Muslims. Almost 70% of the population in the host countries consists of Muslims (Cordesman, 2015). Since ISIL aims at turning the world into an Islamic State, it targets such countries for easy radicalization, religious and political control, and abolishment of democracy. Since it is dominant in Syria and Iraq, it has the ability to control most government operations through its involvement in politics, economical maters; oil issues, and religious issues (Laub & Masters, 2015). This gives an indicator that these two governments in one way or the other support ISIL’s operations. It is known that most governments in the Middle East do not like America’s involvement in its affairs; it appreciates ISIL’s resistance against America and thus quietly funds it. However, while other terrorist organizations solely rely on financial networks from sympathizers, ISIL derives its wealth from oil sales, taxes, and extortion. However, in return, it institutes order, which include punishing those who go against the Islamic religion, and protects the locals from the Assad and Maliki regimes (Tabler, 2014). It is controversial on how ISIL operates in its host countries. This is because it covered by political parties and other governmental organs, which make its operations invisible to whoever tries to fight it. However, it must be known that ISIL is a terrorist organization fought against by most governments. In fact, it has been suggested that the groups can be wiped out by Iran, as a move to help Iraq realize its own path. Cordesman Anthony H. (2015, May 1). The First Inspector General Report on the Fight Against ISIL: A Public Relations Exercise Without Meaningful Transparency. Center for Strategic & International Studies. Retrieved Jun 7, 2015 from: http://csis.org/files/publication/150501_commentary.pdf. Tabler Andrew J. (2014, Aug 11). ISIL Could

In The Name of Identity by Amin Maalouf Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

In The Name of Identity by Amin Maalouf - Essay Example Humans cling to their identities through habits that are inherited through generations. It is necessary to accept all identities and identify personal individuality for a better society. Â  The book presents an interesting philosophy towards ethnic forms of identity. The roots of passion and hate are commonly based on such identities and inclinations, and this is mostly unsafe behavior. Such behaviors can be easily forgotten if they are examined closely. However, Maalouf does not believe that all is lost and that there is still faith in humanity if only cultural and religious bearings are given a philosophical thought. Through his argument, it is evident that globalization has both good and negative effects, depending on the form of identity one assumes. For instance, Muslims wage holy war based on their religious inclination. Instead of seeing terrorism as something bad, it is categorized as jihad. Â  People may change their beliefs, and can even change their religion entirely. Malouf is introduced as an Arabic-speaking Lebanese Christian who dwells in France. Greek and Roman philosophy provides the basis for most forms of religion. These philosophies are what have guided the thoughts that most religious inclinations present. However, globalization gradually introduced the diversity and multiculturalism that is seen in the present societal context. Â  Living in other regions far from home presents an identity dilemma that most people cannot handle. This is especially true in cases where the person is not familiar with the local language. A Muslim living in America may see oneself as more of American than an Arab. While identity cannot be grouped, it always brings some form of confusion, especially if there are questions asked. This happens on a national and international scale to most foreigners. In addition, they may be labeled based on the stereotypes people have of such identities. Â