Sometimes "small world" journalists do note theological differences, but in an "oh, by the way" manner. For example, the (Jacksonville) Florida Times-Union stated, "Muslims believe in all of God's prophets, including Jesus Christ. However, they believe Muhammad was the last and final prophet." Oh, that's all? What about Christ being not just one among many prophets, but God?
To religiously illiterate reporters, these are matters of abstract belief but have little practical importance. "Big world" journalists, though, know enough to point out that different beliefs about God have consequences. To return to Islamic anthropology: Those who yearn for a caliph, a new Muhammad perfect in every realm, do not create the separation of powers that is needed to keep democracy from becoming tyrannical.
Commencement speakers often speak sweet nothings, but journalists should know better. (And if a presidential candidate says or implies that it's a small world after all, don't vote for him. What he doesn't understand about other religions and societies could kill us.) We need more curious folks like Orlean, who said, "I have a kind of missionary zeal to tell my readers that the world is a more complex place than they ever thought."
Marvin Olasky
Marvin Olasky is editor-in-chief of the national news magazine World. For additional commentary by Marvin Olasky, visit www.worldmag.com.
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