Earlier this month Random House announced that it would pull the book "Jewel of Medina," debut novel by Sherry Jones, from publication in response to suggestions by a few university professors that the book could incite violence from a small, radical population of Muslims. 

In my opinion, RH is perfectly within their rights to accept or reject publication of any book for any reason.  Censorship?  Yes, but as long as the government isn't banning production of the book this is simply a business decision.  Corporations must have the right to protect their business interests and employees.

The real message though - and one which I think American Muslims need to address - is that the tiny faction of fundamentalists are forging the path of public opinion concerning Islam. 

Here's another thing:  I understand Random House's obligation to protect the safety of its employees and Ms. Jones, but...the very foundation of our nation is red with the blood of those who have died in service to protect our freedom, including freedom of speech.

Isn't it still worth the risk?

Read more here:

http://www.publishersweekly.com/article/CA6585601.html?nid=2286&source=title&rid=&q=%22jewel+of+medina%22

http://newsweek.washingtonpost.com/postglobal/islamsadvance/2008/08/censoring_islam.html

http://www.nytimes.com/2008/08/20/arts/20arts-MORETROUBLES_BRF.html?ref=arts

I have, until now, avoided discussion of politics on my blog.  I'm not big on conflict and ideological debate is pretty much pointless.  I've been watching the various news networks and tracking the antics of our presumptive nominees and, quite frankly, I'm agog.  What's going on?

First off, did you follow Obama's recent tour to Iraq and Europe?  Talk about presumptions!  I was shocked at his audacity to present himself as not a presidential candidate, but more like the King of America simply awaiting his coronation.  Oh, granted, he was clear - when pressed by reporters - in admitting he was simply a presidential candidate, but the media impression he left was more than a little disturbing to me. 

Apparently to others, as well;  judging by the poll numbers his campaign stunt appears to have backfired.

And this announcement that he's not going to participate in the Town Hall style debates because it's not "convenient" to his schedule?  Puhlease!

Now, to the fascism.  What the hell is going on that Nancy Pelosi - whether she has the "authority" as House Speaker or not - would behave like a freakin' playground bully and refuse to allow a vote on something as critical to our economy as the energy crisis?  Not only did she shut down Congress for their "holiday," but she had the media security-escorted out of the building and turned the lights out on those of our Representatives who take their positions seriously. 

For whom is she speaking?  I don't believe it's the vast majority of American citizens who want Congress to come up with some solution. 

For the record:  I'm a registered Republican with my political leanings pretty near the center.  McCain is, in my opinion, the best of our two viable options for President.  On the one hand, we have the young guy who was just cutting his molars and asking Santa for a new banana seat bicycle while the other guy was being tortured for his country in Vietnam and refusing to leave when he had the chance because he wouldn't leave his fellow soldiers behind. 

One guy has the experience to lead our country, the other has...hmmm, what does he have?  Oh, charisma.

I hope both of them make good Veep selections because we - are you with me ? have got to be confident that our Executive branch will have the experience to lead the country and the longevity to complete at least one term.