An "awful lot" dont represent the mentality of billions of other muslims spread out throughout the world. Besides, you have to counter in the media exploitation of those supposed "awful lot". And like you said yourself before in order to get a better understanding one must not have bias and approach religion objectively and not allow people's, regardless of numbers, actions or reactions influence your conclusion of that religion. Lets assume its true and the majority are supportive of the violence. Do YOU think that is the REAL face of Islam? Is that what you will be certain of when your studying or teaching comparative religion? In the long run you can think what you want but dont for one second allow many's wrongdoings mislead you. That is the one thing that I learnt from YOU and value most since I found your blog. Your capacity for compassion and understanding inspires us all. But if you start lacking repsect for the faith of billins of people worldwide then we cant help it if we start lacking respect for you or your faith in return.