Why “Civilizational Clash” Narratives Miss the Point

The idea that Islam as a whole is on a divine mission to conquer the West is a narrative that oversimplifies history and ignores the diversity within the Muslim world. Extremist groups absolutely exist, and they should be confronted directly. But they don’t represent the beliefs or intentions of the vast majority of Muslims.

When we frame global politics as a “civilizational clash,” we end up strengthening extremist propaganda on both sides. It’s possible to take threats seriously without adopting the worldview of the people who commit them.

We can defend Western values without abandoning nuance.

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