1. What is the factual basis of what "Islamists" say they seek to impose on the world?
It is a fact that, while there are many groups in the world that want to see USA decline, it is only a radical Islamist group that has directly initiated warfare, and not just on 9/11. One can argue that was in response to US policies, but seen from purely the defense perspective of the US military, their nation is under attack, and they have a duty to protect it as ordered by their government.
(I would strenuously argue that the best way to change the perceived wrongs of US policies is political, not war, but that belongs in another discussion surely.)
What the Islamist groups are fighting for is annihilation of the US. That is clear. Equally clearly, it is the duty of the US military to protect USA. Both sides are playing for the highest stakes.
2. Does present-day Islam as is being practiced need to change, and if so, how?
Present day Islam is struggling to find its identity, and many societies in the world are caught up in that struggle either directly (for example in the Middle East) and indirectly (for example USA). The process of updating medieval concepts and practices is gut-wrenching to many traditionalists and confusing for modernists, and thus messy for everyone to participate or watch alike. And there is no choice but to put up with the mess as it is slowly sorted out. After all, all religions go through such phases periodically.
3. If it does not change, how can forces in opposition seek its self-destruction?
I have no doubt in my mind that the practice of Islam will continue to change, as it has already since its inception. After all, it is defined as a religion for all times to come. How can it not remain static? Thus opposing forces need to be assured that it will never self-destruct, either from within or without. It is here to stay, but it will evolve. It must.
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Dooley's course is an exceedingly small issue compared to the big picture. Politicizing of this issue internally in the midst of a Presidential election, or internationally as some sinister conspiracy affecting the very survival of Islam (which it most certainly does not), are both disingenuous and directed by set agendas.
In the US, this issue will be used to rile up both the left to improve political correctness, and the right to blame the Administration for being soft on terror when it tries to be politically correct. Internationally, this issue will be used to increase radical recruitment and fund-raising by the "See-I-told-you-so-USA-is-the-Great-Satan-out-to-destroy-Islam" crowd.
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Since I am quite famous for my predictions, I will predict that all of these will prove to be a flashes in the pan and fizzle out as the year proceeds. Until the next great contrived issue is released on cue, of course. ( May be. May be not.
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