Counterpoints- Page 20

Short, sharp commentary from Standpoint on media, politics, religion and public life. Brief pieces with an edge.

A Gross Violation

Last month the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe declared that male circumcision is a “violation of the physical integrity of children”. This is clear anti-religious prejudice

October 29, 2013

Counterpoints·Ethnicity·EU·Europe·Faith

Jovial Pragmatists

SOAS’s new exhibition on Zoroastrianism fails to capture the rich cultural and historical legacy of this much-misunderstood and embattled faith

October 29, 2013

Counterpoints·India

Malala’s Real Message

As a 15-year-old British schoolgirl, what struck me about this teenager’s life was that she isn’t a victim, but a role model whose every day is a protest.

October 29, 2013

Counterpoints·Faith·Pakistan

Tsar Of The Holy Land

For Vladimir Putin, Syria is as much a question of religion as of arms sales; in his eyes, Assad protects Syria’s ancient Christian communities

September 25, 2013

Counterpoints·Middle East·Russia

Kennedy’s False Note

Much hoo-ha was made of the BBC’s “censorship” of Nigel Kennedy’s remarks about Palestine at the Proms. In truth, Kennedy knew all along he’d be taken off air

September 25, 2013

Counterpoints·Israel·Music

A Syrian Precedent

In 64BC, Roman general Pompey annexed a potentially volatile Syria. Then, as now, where Western concerns are paramount, intervention needs to be diplomatic and risk-taking

September 25, 2013

Counterpoints·Middle East