The Roots of Rage: Inside Islam features somewhat inflammatory segments from NBC Dateline programs that aired shortly after the events of 9/11 when emotions ran high as Americans wondered how a supposedly peaceful religion could be invoked in relation to terrorist attacks that killed thousands. Beginning in Pakistan, the program presents ordinary citizens' views (concerning Osama bin Laden, American foreign policy, and American culture), before traveling back in time to trace the history of Islam, a faith-based civilization marked by notable cultural and academic achievements and a sense of overall tolerance, prior to the overthrow of the Shah of Iran in 1979, which brought a more fundamentalist strain of Islam to the forefront of world affairs. In addition, the video looks at the Islamic Wahabi sect's relationship to the Saudi royal family (especially in light of Saudi Arabia's controversial status as an ally to the United States, not to mention a major supplier of the world's oil), raises the question of how far the U.S. may go in the War on Terror, and profiles an Arab-American family to examine the implications for American Muslims. While much of the visual material is obviously dated, the accompanying guide clearly directs viewers to think in terms of more current events, and adopts a far less fearful tone. A good discussion starter, especially in the context of post-9/11 elements such as the ongoing war in Iraq, the 9/11 Commission's findings, and President Bush's reelection pledge to extend freedom throughout the world, this is recommended. Aud: J, H, C. (E. Gieschen)
The Roots of Rage: Inside Islam
(2004) 39 min. VHS: $139.95 (teacher’s guide included). Human Relations Media. PPR. Volume 20, Issue 2
The Roots of Rage: Inside Islam
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