Watch Islam and the Future of Tolerance

Islam and the Future of Tolerance is a thought-provoking documentary film released in 2018. The movie features two leading intellectual figures, Sam Harris and Maajid Nawaz, who engage in a candid conversation about Islam, and its impact on the future of tolerance in Western societies. The movie revolves around the sensitive and controversial topic of Islamophobia, and how it affects the growth of Islam as a religion and Muslim communities in the world.

The film opens with Harris and Nawaz discussing the divisive nature of the discourse around Islam and terrorism. They both argue that there is a need for a more nuanced and balanced view that acknowledges the complexity of the issue. Nawaz, who is a former Islamist extremist, argues that a lack of engagement with Muslims and an oversimplified view of the religion has contributed to a culture of fear and hatred.

Throughout the movie, Harris and Nawaz continue their dialogue, exploring issues such as the threat of extremism and the compatibility of Islam with Western values. Harris argues that Islam, as a religion, is fundamentally at odds with liberal democratic values. He posits that the Quran is a source of intolerance, and that a literal interpretation of the religion is incompatible with progress.

However, Nawaz counters that there is a difference between the religion and its adherents. He believes that it is possible to be a liberal Muslim, and that the religion can be reformed to be more in line with modern values. Nawaz argues that by engaging with Muslims and promoting a more nuanced understanding of the religion, we can create a space for reform and tolerance.

The film does an excellent job of presenting both perspectives, and it encourages viewers to engage in critical thinking about the role of Islam in the world today. It also challenges viewers to think about how we can promote tolerance and understanding in the face of these complex issues.

One of the significant strengths of the movie is the willingness of both Harris and Nawaz to engage in civil discourse. The two men have divergent views on the issue, but they remain respectful and open to each other's perspectives. This creates a space for meaningful dialogue, and it models a way for us to engage with complex issues in a constructive manner.

Another strength of the film is the way that it brings a human face to the issue of Islamophobia. Nawaz, who is a Muslim himself, speaks powerfully about his experience as an extremist and how he was able to change his perspective. He challenges us to see Muslims as individuals with a range of experiences and beliefs.

Ultimately, Islam and the Future of Tolerance is a vital film for anyone interested in the intersection of religion and politics. It challenges us to think critically about the issue of Islamophobia and how we can create a more tolerant and nuanced understanding of the religion. It is a powerful reminder of the importance of civil discourse and the potential for dialogue to bring about positive change.

Islam and the Future of Tolerance is a 2018 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 28 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.8.