Political and Religious Extremism
There are no candidates from extreme parties standing in the Heaton Ward fortunately, but they are standing elsewhere in Bradford . Along with most people, Alan is concerned by the numbers supporting the far right, although they remain a small minority. He is also concerned by the existence of extreme Islamist groups, who reject the idea that Muslims should engage positively in the society around them. Again, these represent a tiny minority of Muslims.
• Do you think that even talking about extremism is likely to make matters worse?
• Or do you share the concerns about extreme groups?
• Why do you think that some people are attracted to extreme positions?
• Should more be done by the Council and other agencies to address these problems, and to put forward positive alternatives to extreme views?
• What policies might this involve?
Send your comment
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Comments received so far
| Comment | Name/Date |
|---|---|
I think it is critical that we recognise the problem of extremism in Bradford, and engage with the reasons why people are being attracted to these views. It is obviously really important for the Council and others to be putting forward positive alternatives. It isn't enough to dismiss people's views and concerns, the Council needs to hear the reasons people are tempted to vote for a party like the BNP, and respond. Silence about contentious issues is a breeding ground for extremism. |
Heather, 1/6/04 |
It's a bit vague, your leaflet that is: when you talk about religious intolerance what do you mean? Do you mean people who are intolerant of religious beliefs or religious beliefs that are intolerant of people's life choices? Please clarify. Clarification from Alan: the leaflet mentions religious extremism, not religious intolerance, but I am happy to answer the question, because I am against religious intolerance as well as religious extremism. And I am against both types of religious intolerance that you distinguish: intolerance directed against people of particular faiths by those outside the faith ('inward' intolerance, if you like), and intolerance directed at those outside the faith by people inside ('outward' intolerance). Both points extend to people with secular beliefs, for example, humanists or atheists, who should neither be intolerant of religion nor subject to intolerance by religious believers, in my view. Thank you Alan and good luck in the elections |
Brian, 5/6/04
Alan's Response
Thanks to you, Brian, too.
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