Global Awareness: Islamic Extremism Small Group Discussion

The radicalization of people to commit extreme acts of violence against others in the name of religion  is the key element that needs to be addressed in our discussion about religious extremism. Take the case of US Army Major Nidal Hasan who attacked and killed and wounded fellow soldiers in Fort Hood Texas.

Major Nidal Hasan was a commissioned officer in the US Army and an Army psychologist who swore an oath of allegiance to the United States Constitution  and a Hippocratic oath as a doctor obligating him to help and not harm others. He is a Muslim like many others in our US Armed Forces, citizens from all  different races, creeds, and religions who voluntarily serve their nation in the military.

 Is there something other than mental illness, which would cause this soldier to attack other soldiers that he was sworn to lead and maintain their well being? How was he radicalized as a Muslim to commit terrorism in the name of Allah when it is counter to the teachings of Islam...?

Class Activity: We will conduct a class discussion on this phenomenon.