TV News Review

When I saw the commercials for this three part special on the religions of Judaism, Islam, and Christianity, I was skeptical. I was fully expecting a slanted view that either was derogatory to all religion, something along the lines of, “It is the opium of the people. The abolition of religion as the illusory happiness of the people is required for their real happiness” Karl Marx, or at the very least a harsh look at Christianity and Judaism while giving a favorable look at Islam.

I watched the first part of the trilogy, a look at the “warriors” of Judaism. I found it to be fair and a reasonable look at Judaism, Israel and those that are fighting politically and militarily in what they believe to be the best interest of Judaism. I thought there could have been a little more shown of the terrorist attacks that have been carried out by pro-Palestinian groups against Jewish settlers, leading some settlers to turn to their own civilian paramilitary actions against the Palestinians in the occupied territories.

The second part of the three part special focused on Islam and it’s followers. I was impressed and surprised by the critical look at Islam’s ‘warriors’. Amanpour did not hold back from looking at how radical Islam is threatening not just the West, but the entire World, including other Muslims that do not practice as the radicals think they should. She looked at how radical Islam seduces young men and what I would characterize as brain washing them. I don’t believe Amanpour held back in this portion.

As I began the third, and final, portion of this special, the look at Christianity’s ‘warriors’, I was still skeptical. It is often the common belief that the mainstream media is less than willing to be objective in looking at Christianity and especially fundamentalist Christianity. Again I was pleasantly surprised and impressed by the way in which CNN and Amanpour handled the topic. I believe she was fair and objective.

Overall Amanpour did a very impressive job handling a difficult topic that is full of pitfalls and opportunities for falling into caricatures rather than taking the time to show the truth. This CNN special is a worthy use of time by all to gain a better understanding of the history, beliefs and goals of “God’s Warriors” from the three major religions that culminate in their reverence for Jerusalem and purportedly all believe in and worship the same God.

If you haven’t seen this special yet and have the opportunity I would strongly suggest viewing it. While it is three, two hour shows, they move at a good pace and are packed with a great deal of information. I plan to watch them again.

I would like to thank CNN and Amanpour for doing such an excellent job and surpassing my expectations. This was a special that was worthy of being called a “special”.

One Eyed Man