The Roots of Rage: Inside Islam 2004
Distributed by Human Relations Media, 41 Kensico Drive, Mt. Kisco, NY 10549; 800-431-2050
Produced by NBC News Productions, a division of NBC, Inc.
Director n/a
VHS, color, 39 min.
Jr. High - Adult
International Relations, Middle Eastern Studies, Religious Studies
Date Entered: 03/03/2005
Reviewed by Mary Northrup, Metropolitan Community College-Maple Woods, Kansas City, MissouriWhy do certain Islamic groups hate the United States? This is the question addressed in this Dateline film. Those accustomed to the television show will find the format familiar, with several segments addressing various aspects of the main topic. Reporters interview a variety of people in the United States and abroad to try to explain modern day Islamic terrorism.
Viewers may be shocked by the views expressed by students in Pakistan, even those in an upper-class boarding school. Osama bin Laden has "rock star status" among many. Government ministers, journalists, and a businesswoman are also interviewed; through their words the viewer learns of the reasons for some of the resentment: economic sanctions against Iraq, U.S. backing of the Shah of Iran, and U.S. support of Israel.
Another segment explores the history of Islam and how its basis in peace can be reconciled with violence. This area presents a great learning opportunity for students, as the brief history of Muslim accomplishments and an explanation of the Five Pillars may spur them on to further reading.
Other segments examine Saudi Arabia and its relationship with the United States and with terrorists and Israel's answer to the 1972 Olympic murders. The closing segment visits an Arab-American family in Dearborn, Michigan, who express their all-American patriotism and support of their country.
This video would be an excellent source for learning and discussion in classrooms from junior high social studies through college. The accompanying teacher's guide includes sample discussion questions and activities. General public libraries may also want to consider for their video collections.
Although the copyright date is 2004, this program was made several years earlier. In one scene, dates given seem to suggest that it was made in 2002. Therefore, while September 11th and Afghanistan are featured, the war in Iraq is not mentioned.
With eye-opening coverage, The Roots of Rage will be sure to enlighten, provoke, and inform all viewers.