Boris Johnson: Islamophobia is a 'natural reaction' to Islam and 'Islam is the problem' - Business Insider

Who are Business Insider?
Business Insider is a digital media platform providing global coverage of technology, finance, markets, politics, and lifestyle. The publication features original journalism, analytical deep dives, and first-person essays spanning multiple sectors including artificial intelligence, macroeconomics, and consumer trends.

---

What is Islamophobia?
Islamophobia is the fear, hatred of, or prejudice against, the Islamic religion or Muslims generally. This is especially when seen as a geopolitical force or the source of terrorism. The causes and characteristics of Islamophobia are still debated. Some commentators have posited an increase in Islamophobia resulting from the September 11 WTC attacks, the rise of Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIS), some from multiple terror attacks in Europe and the United States, while others have associated it with the increased presence of Muslims in the United States and in the European Union.

---

Who is Boris?
Boris Johnson (born 1964) is a British politician, author, and former journalist who has served as Prime Minister of the United Kingdom. He is the Leader of the Conservative Party since 2019. Johnson was Foreign Secretary from 2016 to 2018 and Mayor of London from 2008 to 2016. Johnson was Member of Parliament (MP) for Henley from 2001 to 2008 and has been MP for Uxbridge and South Ruislip since 2015. Ideologically, he identifies as a one-nation conservative.

---

What is Islam?
One of the major religions of the world, Islam literally translates to "submission," as a follower of Islam (Muslims) devotes their life to that of their God. The religion began with the teachings of Muhammad in the 7th century. The theology of Islam is based on the Qur'an, which was given to Muhammad by God. Some of the major fundamental principles of Islam include the Five Pillars, which hope to unite all Muslims into a community. Two different factions of Muslims exist - the majority are known as Sunni, with a small percentage known as Shi'a - both predominantly reside throughout the Middle East. Muhammad died in 632 AD and the religion of Islam formally started after his death. The Quran was formally compiled and finalised in 650 AD, prior to which it was 'memorised' and written across many parchments.

---

What is Sin?
In Abrahamic contexts, sin is the act of violating God's will. Sin can also be viewed as anything that violates the ideal relationship between an individual and God; or as any diversion from the ideal order for human living. To sin has been defined as "to miss the mark". Sins fall in a spectrum from minor errors to deadly misdeeds. Catholicism regards the least corrupt sins as venial sins which are part of human living and carry immediate consequences on earth, and, if unrepented for, more painful purgation, assuming the person is destined to heaven, as it is written in the formation letter "Purgatory", "most of the early Fathers of the Church speak of a cleansing fire, though we cannot tell whether this means actual or spiritual fire." Conversely, sins of great evil are mortal sins which bring the consequence of hell if they are not addressed either through an act of perfect contrition or going to confession about them.

---