© 2024 Connecticut Public

FCC Public Inspection Files:
WEDH · WEDN · WEDW · WEDY · WNPR
WPKT · WRLI-FM · WEDW-FM · Public Files Contact
ATSC 3.0 FAQ
Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations

Countering Extremism: Dismantling an Ideology Through the Power of Ideas

Sean MacEntee
/
Flickr Creative Commons

Here in America we're taught to celebrate ideas, to think outside the box and to fan the flames of innovation whenever possible. But what do we do when an idea becomes destructive? And even worse; when that idea becomes an ideology?

This is the prospect we're facing with extremism around the world. Now America, a nation well adapted to win wars by conventional means, is being forced onto a battlefield it's less accustomed to-- one where social media, propaganda and targeted messaging are the weapons of choice.

But the U.S. is starting to fight back. Recognizing the need to counter recruitment efforts by ISIS and others, the government is devoting significant resources towards developing its own online presence.

Through official U.S. Twitter accounts designed to expose the hypocrisy of jihadist thinking, to the utilization of Arab speaking agents to infiltrate extremist discussion forums, The U.S. is learning that the war of ideas is being waged on the web.

And it's not just the U.S. that's fighting this unconventional battle. Muslim's around the world, concerned with the perversion of their religion and culture, are taking steps to spread a message of peace and tolerance.

Through channels such as the Fikra forum and the Muslim founded think tank, Muflehun, those whose hearts and minds are at the center of this ideological contest are pushing back.

Today we speak with experts in these areas about the current international efforts to fight extremist ideas.

Please leave comments below, email us at colin@wnpr.org, or tweet us @wnprcolin.

GUESTS:

Colin McEnroe and Chion Wolf contributed to this show.

Stand up for civility

This news story is funded in large part by Connecticut Public’s Members — listeners, viewers, and readers like you who value fact-based journalism and trustworthy information.

We hope their support inspires you to donate so that we can continue telling stories that inform, educate, and inspire you and your neighbors. As a community-supported public media service, Connecticut Public has relied on donor support for more than 50 years.

Your donation today will allow us to continue this work on your behalf. Give today at any amount and join the 50,000 members who are building a better—and more civil—Connecticut to live, work, and play.

Related Content