Are Muslims trying to change the West?

-What an original insight! The "war for oil" crowd is not only grossly misinformed, but nearly brainwashed beyond retrieval. I understand we have different viewpoints regarding "cause and effect" of world influence, dominance, rights, wrongs, vengeance, etc...., but for those who choose to consistently point their fingers and condemn the actions and intentions of others with a complete disregard for reason and logic do not help the situation whatsoever. In the United States, we have anti-war demonstrators who consistently follow suite with the mad ravings of people such as Cindy Sheehan or the ignorant ideologies of Hollywood celebrities. What does this solve? Nothing! Instead of debating reasonable solutions for an obvious problem, many want to consistently play "blame America first, ask questions later!"

-As far is Iraq is concerned...... The invasion of Iraq was to remove a ruthless dictator "Hussein" and flush out those involved with terrorist action and/or conspiracy. We did not intend to occupy the country as long as we have....and for this I am not very happy. I personally feel that rebuilding the government, in retrospect, was a mistake. I have supported the cause the entire time, though I am afraid the Iraqi people are not holding up to their end of the deal. All of this oil that we are supposedly "stealing" is sure not helping out the American people very much. Gas is about $3.00 a gallon here, not much of a solution even if it were true.

-Finally, to answer the question..........yes, all civilizations that can "influence" the rest of the world will. We could go on all day about what the "right" way to live is, but it is ultimately up to the individual to decide for themselves. My views are totally opposite of many on this forum, though I respect diverse opinions. It really boils down to what one is used to and what one feels is best not only for themselves, but for the world as a whole. This is a very complicated manner, because ones "beliefs" are created by a vast combination of social, environmental and biological influences....many of which the individual realizes little, if anything, about. It is impossible for me to understand the motives behind organizations such as Hezbollah, Al-Qaeda, Hamas, etc.... but I am afraid much of the motivation goes beyond choice and enters the realm of deception and brainwashing. Religion also plays a key part in our current world conflicts. Islam, as well as Christianity, are both rooted in common beliefs such as compassion towards others and holding oneself at a high moral standard....but unfortunately, people misinterpret these messages. When one allows an ideology of any kind (religion included) overshadow logic, one is destined to become mentally weak and easily manipulated. It is simply the natural of order of things for others to prey off of these weaknesses for a wide range of personal gain.

-I live in Norman, OK so we are fortunate for our prices to not reach as high as many other areas of the country. Also,  I will be able to ride a bike or walk to school this fall.....and this will be where I spend most of my time throughout the semester. I have heard of alot of people actually having to switch jobs or move to compensate for their increased energy bills (primarily gas consumption). Alternative energy sources are by far my most important voting concerns for the previous and upcoming elections, so hopefully we will be able to elect officials who are capable of decreasing our dependency on uncertain sources.