Eight years ago, some journalists mused upon their growing impression that somehow newspapers censored themselves whenever they reported on Islam. While no one held back slamming the christian, jewish, or hindu belief, criticizing Islam was always done in the most timid of voices, anxious not to offend.

Believing that this was wrong, and hoping that this was just a misinterpretation of facts, they published an article. Fleming Rose, culture editor wrote:

Modern, secular society is rejected by some Muslims. They demand a special position, insisting on special consideration of their own religious feelings. It is incompatible with contemporary democracy and freedom of speech, where one must be ready to put up with insults, mockery and ridicule. It is certainly not always attractive and nice to look at, and it does not mean that religious feelings should be made fun of at any price, but that is of minor importance in the present context. […] we are on our way to a slippery slope where no-one can tell how the self-censorship will end.

The article was accompanied by 12 hand-drawn cartoons depicting the prophet Mohammed as subject of mild irony. In the aftermath, reportedly more than 200 people died violently.

Later, the Onion published a hand-drawn cartoon depicting Moses, Jesus, Ganesha and Buddha engaging in extremely graphic group sex [WARNING: somewhat tasteless cartoon here].

No one died.

Fleming proved his point beyond his wildest nightmares. Today, Islam is still treated differently from all other religions. Not out of respect – but because of fear. Recent events at the London School of Economics and UKU underline just how erratic people have become in their efforts not to ‘offend’ Islam.

Is this really a good thing? More importantly: why are we letting this happen? Is fear really a good counselor?