Cultural clashes
From Siddiq Bazarwala Sir: Your cover story (The abuse of women', 27 October) only serves to contribute to the constant stereotyping of Muslims. Forced marriages take place in many non-Muslim parts of Africa, and among some Hindus in India. People do this because it's part of their culture and not because Islam mandates such an absurd practice. Islam and the Koran have a simple rule in this regard: no child should be forced into marriage against his or her will. While I do not deny that forced marriages and the abuse of women take place the world over, both in Islamic and non-Islamic states, it is silly to blame one religion for what is essentially a cultural, not religious, practice.
Siddiq Bazarwala
Singapore
From Georgina Dubourcq Sir: While I don't disagree with Dr Dalrymple's comments about the way Muslim culture can treat women, I wonder how a culture which condones lap-dancing, pornographic videos and often turns a blind eye to under-age prostitution can really feel superior. Isn't it the truth that men of all races prefer their horses and cars?
Georgina Dubourcq
flyfizzi@dircon.co.uk
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