Victor Davis Hanson discusses the surprising pairing of Islam and Marxism-socialism in modern American and Western contexts. He questions how radical Muslims can align with socialist ideologies, highlighting the contradictions and commonalities between these two belief systems.
1. Contradictions in Beliefs:
Hanson notes the stark differences between radical Islamic beliefs and socialist values. For instance, many Muslims advocate for strict moral codes that clash with the liberal views of socialism, such as acceptance of LGBTQ+ rights.
He challenges the notion that progressive, urban socialists can reconcile their ideologies with radical Islamic stances, particularly concerning women's rights and sexuality.
2. Religious versus Secular Ideologies:
Islam is a monotheistic religion centered on the worship of Allah, while socialism often dismisses religion as a hindrance to societal progress.This divide creates fundamental differences in how both groups view society's structure.
Historically, socialist ideologues consider religion as the "opiate of the masses," whereas Islam mandates allegiance to a higher power, complicating potential alliances.
3. Cultural Differences:
Unity in Islamic states often runs along tribal lines, as opposed to the global perspective of socialism, which promotes solidarity among the oppressed worldwide.This tribalism can create tension among diverse groups within Islamic societies.
In contrast, Marxism advocates for a global proletariat struggle, focusing on social justice rather than loyalty to local or tribal identities.
4. Shared Hostility Toward Western Values:
Both radical Islamists and socialists share a disdain for Western civilization, including its principles of free speech and capitalism. They express this contempt through protests and acts of violence.
The alliance is not without irony, as socialism has historically opposed imperialism and aristocracy, while many Islamic groups often exist under monarchy or tribal rule.
5. Common Enemies:
Both groups unite against shared adversaries such as capitalism and Israel.Hanson emphasizes that their grievances against capitalism are rooted in perceived social inequities.
They also find common ground in promoting anti-Israel sentiments, despite the irony surrounding the socialist foundations of Israel's founding.
6. Use of Violence:
Both radical socialists and Islamic extremists justify the use of violence towards achieving their ends.This violent pursuit of political goals underscores a shared willingness to use force to promote their ideologies.
7. Historical Context:
Hanson draws parallels to historical figures like Hitler, who mixed aspects of socialism with nationalist sentiments.He notes that such figures had an admiration for certain Islamic principles despite claiming to oppose other aspects of socialism.
Hanson concludes that while the alliance between Islam and socialism appears strange and contradictory, underlying similarities exist in their mutual opposition to Western values and shared adversaries. Their collaboration highlights a complex relationship marked by both mutual interests and profound ideological divides.
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