Obama Gives Support To Ground Zero Mosque Plans

Barack Obama has spoke out in favour of the plans to build a Mosque at Ground Zero, adding that any opposition to this construction would be "un-American". The proposed "Islamic Cultural Centre" and Mosque would be two blocks away from the Ground Zero site, which marks the area where the twin towers were brought down by Islamic Extremist on 11 september 2001, killing 2,995 people and the 19 hijackers responsible.

The president's opinion on this current political and cultural hot-potato came at a White House dinner to celebrate Ramadan, the Islamic tradition of fasting.

In his speech, President Obama said: "As a citizen, and as president, I believe that Muslims have the same right to practise their religion as everyone else in this country.

"That includes the right to build a place of worship and a community centre on private property in lower Manhattan, in accordance with local laws and ordinances.

"This is America, and our commitment to religious freedom must be unshakeable."

Please see the below video for the speech

Do you agree with Barack Obama's view on this sensitive issue? Are Muslim's being lumped into the same category as dangerous and violent extremist? Please share your opinions in the comments below and cast your vote on the poll on the right of this page. Join the discussion.

Richard Dawkins In Burka Jibe

Professor Richard Dawkins appears to have caught the attention of the media this week with a comment made about the traditional Muslim garment. Dawkins was said to have referred to the item of religious clothing as "a full bin-liner thing" during an interview with the radio times. Richard Dawkins was primarily there to discuss his upcoming documentaries, In Faith Schools Menace? These comments have lead to criticism from notable Muslim groups, as reported by UK newspaper The Daily Mail (click to read full article)

A representative of the Muslim Association of Britain, Seyyed Ferjani has responded to the comments made by Richard Dawkins as "Islamaphobic". The issue of religious symbolism and dress, specifically the Burka have been somewhat of a focal point in recent years. The debate intensified and returned to the forefront of discussion last month when the French parliament moved to ban the Burka from public places. Is this a sign of secular progression, or an infringement of ones liberties? Is there a line drawn when it comes to criticism of Religion, which informs us we should respect other beliefs? Are genuine concerns about security and the oppression of women being swept under the carpet as Islamaphobia? Please use the comment section to air your views on the Burka and whether criticism of these practices comes at a cost or if you feel peoples religious beliefs are important and should be respected.

Ghost Debate

Whether it be films staring the late Patrick Swayze, or stories told between friends late at night, the concept of Ghost or Spirits are ingrained in our culture, and virtually every culture in the world. Is this a product of our "spirit" or "souls" living on, passing over to an after-life? Or simply too much read into things that go bump in the night? Is it a belief born out of self comfort, convincing ourselves there is life after death? Or is there real evidence to suggest the existence of Ghost? I want all your views on this, ghost stories, unexplained experiences (and your interpretation of them) and some razor sharp logic from the more sceptical among you. Please post your comments below and take time to participate in the poll to your right. I aint 'fraid of no ghost!