During the contemporary period, globalisation has brought the world closer than at any one time in human history, and yet, Islam, the second-largest religion in the world, remains a focus of significant controversy and censure.

As to the question “Is Islam harmful to society?” There are a lot of people who feel very sensitive about it. But let’s face it; let’s consider it too. Many people follow a certain religion; they would even go for over 190 million people. What makes such a religion considered bad? Or is it just coloured by fear, ignorance, and a few aberrations?

Let’s cut straight to the heart of the matter: So, then, Islam as a religion may be bad for society. Thus, it is the extent to which these groups massively pervert the principles of Islam that the issues emerge. But the activities of terrorist groups such as the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria, Al-Qaeda, or the Taliban are what people get to perceive from the media. These groups bend the interpretations of Islamic holy books for violence, and here we are where not just Islam and the Muslims but terrorism and extremism become synonymous.

Islamic extremism is a significant issue among Muslims. Sharia law, which is conservative in areas like family law, governance, and media freedom, is often debated in relation to Islam. However, the application of Sharia law varies across Islamic states, with some being strict and others mixed with secular laws. It is important to note that extremism is a complex issue that cannot be solely attributed to the presence or absence of Sharia law.

Throughout history, Muslims have actively participated in various societal aspects, inheriting the intellectual legacy of notable Islamic personalities who contributed to modern mathematics, medicine, and philosophy. Today, Muslims may not be working like any other person for development, and claiming Islam is evil recognizes the negative aspects and principles that most Muslims practice, such as acts of violence, terrorism, and disgraceful practices in society.

The more productive question is how society and Islam can be compatible, as Islam comes in black-and-white sections.

And if we continue seeing Islam as a threat religion that we should be afraid of, all that we do is build walls. The real solution is dialogue—people should listen to the quiet voices of moderate Muslim citizens and learn about their religion.

Thus, although globalisation has made the entire world more interconnected than before, Islam is still a source of disagreement and criticism. The degree to which terrorist organisations abuse Islamic ideas raises the question of whether Islam is harmful to society. Sharia law is being discussed in regard to Islam, and Islamic extremism is a major problem among Muslims. But the existence or lack of Sharia law is not the only factor contributing to extremism; it is a complicated problem. Muslims have actively participated in various societal aspects throughout history, contributing to modern mathematics, medicine, and philosophy. When Islam is accused of being wicked, it acknowledges the bad traits and values that Muslims uphold.