Author Description

This is a short guide aimed at helping non-Muslims of different beliefs and backgrounds to understand the foundations of Islām, what is required of Muslims by their faith, their duties towards non-Muslims and the societies within which they live. It addresses the historical foundations of the ideology of al-Qaeda and ISIS, the nature of the deviation of these groups and the Islāmic judgement regarding them. The views of al-Qaeda and ISIS ideologists on the "caliphate" and "jihād" are also analysed. In addition, parameters for identifying genuine signs of extremism as well as misinformation regarding Islām and Muslims have been presented. This information should enable the reader to recognise and be wary of hate propaganda spread by right-wing extremists and well-funded anti-Islām hate networks. To further their own political agendas, these groups use journalism, print and media to foster negativity and hatred against one quarter of the world's population - innocent, ordinary, peaceful Muslims going about their daily lives.