Sociopolitical and economic factors are far more at play than any faith is here.
The middle east is in a period of flux. All of the recent power vacuums, coupled with ever increasing "western" attitudes and sentiments. The march of globalization is being felt very strongly over there right now. The status quo is challenged, which is great. But it's also leading to violence. The traditional power base is grasping at straws trying to maintain their control, and this is what we are seeing.
Our revolution, and civil war, had some pretty ugly shit going on too.
If it were a culture of Presbyterians in the same political environ, they'd be killing just as many. Power does not like change.
Darkest before the dawn. And getting darker still. But the perpetuation of distrust, anger and resentment is only slowing the process. You are playing the moves Isis wants of you by playing into these bullshit stereotypes. Terrorists terrorize. Stop letting them win already. The continued isolation of their region and chosen lifestyle is their only end game. Closing our borders, alienating people based on religious and social divides, and isolating ourselves serves no purpose.
This war will not be won with bullets or bombs. It will be won via education, acceptance, and economic stability. It will be won by breaking down the stereotypes and distrust. Globalization and 21st century viewpoints will prevail, and things will settle eventually, if we don't go and sabotage the process first.
The bleeding heart "one human race" deal has never been more applicable. Our neighbors are closer than ever, as are our enemies. Insularity is terrible policy right now. We will only isolate ourselves.
United we stand.