Stereotypes about Islam are not new to Western culture. Problems can be traced back 1400 years. Some of the ideas that Western people have about Islam are due to the media of the Western world. Reporters who cover the Muslim world often know very little details about it. The media then develops a distorted image of Islam that Western culture adopts. Due to the events surrounding September 11th, a general interest in all things dealing with Islam have risen. This increase in interest represents, on many levels, peoples need to understand how such events could have occurred, and whether or not such violence is inherent in Islam, or if it is just an apparition. The escalation of interests has lead many people to uncover a faith that is suitable to their lifestyle. Islam is the fastest growing religion, despite western ignorance. The things that have caused Islam to spread like a forest fire are what it represents, geographic location, and its appeal. .
Islam is a religion that represents many things. It is a system of beliefs based on the idea that there is one God. Todd Holmberg an anthropology teacher at Naperville Central High School, shares that Islam signifies resilient morals and ethics, as well as a stable family life. Justice and equality are also strongly emphasized. Salem Salem, who completed his journey to Mecca contributes that Allah alone is the Creator, Master, and Ruler of all that exists. The universe exists because God wills it to exist, it functions because God Wills it to function, and God provides the sustenance and the energy which everything in the universe requires for its existence and growth. Geoffrey Orens, author of The Muslim World speaks of how the entire code of Islamic ethics guarantees happiness of the society at large. This code forbids all types of actions that instigate evil and implant hatred in the hearts and minds of people. Application of this code of ethics ensures the enjoyment of security and tranquility.
