Matthew Handley gives his argument for Islam being a peaceful religion.
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Matthew Handley started the debate by grounding it in recent events, deploring the previous day's "reprehensible act in Woolwich", a sentiment that he was sure would be shared by Muslims around the world.

Handley continues by separating the religion of Islam from the individuals who "violently hijack faith for violent and maniacal ends" and maintains that the Qur'an has an "overwhelmingly peaceful character."

In the light of the "decade long surge of violence and aggression" against Islam since 9/11, he summarises the debate as a choice between "love and hate and rejection, peace and conflict" and concludes: "I hope you make the right choice."

MOTION: THIS HOUSE BELIEVES ISLAM IS A RELIGION OF PEACE.
Yes's: 286
No's: 168
Filmed on 28/02/2013

ABOUT MATTHEW HANDLEY:
Studies History at Oxford University and is a mentor for the Debate Mate programme.

ABOUT THE OXFORD UNION SOCIETY:
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