Struggle for the Soul of Pakistan

National Geographic by Don Belt | Aug. 29, 2007 (Special Report)

The nation's efforts to straddle the fault line between moderate and militant Islam offer a cautionary tale for the post-9/11 world.

This is also where two conflicting forms of Islam meet: the relatively relaxed and tolerant Islam of India, versus the rigid fundamentalism of the Afghan frontier. Beneath the surface of Pakistan, these opposing forces grind against each other like two vast geologic plates, rattling teacups from Lahore to London, Karachi to New York. The clash between moderates and extremists in Pakistan today reflects this rift, and can be seen as a microcosm for a larger ... Full Story »

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5.0

by Gary Holcomb - Oct. 1, 2008

This is an extraordinary story; told with power and authenticity. It starts with the separation of India and Pakistan, moves on, giving a glimpse of the history of Pakistan as it changed over time to what it is now. This story explains the reasons for the radicalization that has and is taking place; with descriptions of injustice committed against the poor and why those injustices will eventually add up to even more radicalization. I highly recommend this story to anyone who wants to understand the politics of this Islamic country.

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5.0

by Alexia Katz - Oct. 1, 2008

An excellent piece that should be a "must read" for anyone even remotely affected by Islam, and that's all of us. No hyperbole, cant, or hysteria. Just well written, well sourced "you-are-there" journalism. Well done NG.

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