Pogorzelski 1

Conrad Pogorzelski
Professor Malcolm Campbell
English 1103
2/16/15
Topic Proposal: Is ISIS Islamic?

Introduction/Overview
My topic proposal is: Is ISIS Islamic? I will briefly address the perspectives when
addressing the topic. I will propose that when looking at the Islamic texts, that ISIS is in fact
Islamic, and representative of the Muslim texts. I will address the opposing side that says that
ISIS is not Islamic. I will talk specifically about those who say that because most Muslims are
peaceful, that ISIS is a radical group that is not representative of Islam. However, I will then
explain my side, and that even though the majority of Muslims are not violent, that ISIS is not
unfounded in what they are doing when we look at the Islamic texts. I will also address how to
interpret the scriptures, specifically, the Quran. As I continue, I will then talk about verse from
the Quran and the teachings and life of Muhammed. In addition to providing an argument with
verses from the Islamic texts, I will also talk about perceptions of ISIS, of Muslims, and some
statistics about those who support Sharia Law.

Initial Inquiry Question(s)

The goal in this research is to answer the following question: Is ISIS representative of the
teachings within the Islamic texts? I am not researching whether or not they are carrying out acts

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that are representative of the Muslim community, or whether or not they are representative of
teachings of other Muslims.
My Interest in this Topic
Before I begin presenting any information pertaining to either side of the topic, I will first
address why the topic is relevant and will explain important background information that will be
needed in order to fully understand a comprehensive look at the topic. It is relevant because it is
in the world that we live. Not only that, but it is affecting the whole world. Seeing the horrific
acts of ISIS brings a gut-wrenching feeling that strikes at the heart of humanity. It is important to
understand the group that are doing these things. To do this, we must look at the reasons why
they do what they do.
Next Steps
In my Inquiry I will be doing research through the use of online videos such as debates, I
will use Muslim texts, and other resources such as interviews with Islamic scholars, and news
articles about ISIS. With this I hope to effectively make the case that ISIS is not representative to
Islam, but is in fact is Islamic in their actions and plans based upon the Islamic texts that make
up the religion.