Reza Aslan asserts that the rhetoric of the “West versus Islam” conflict is better considered a “clash of monotheisms” than the more common phrase “clash of civilizations.” What is the difference between the two? Why does it matter for Aslan’s arguments?

Aslan rejects many of the traditions surrounding Muhammad. Analyze the sources he uses to reconstruct the “real” Muhammad. What criteria does he use to accept or reject these traditions?

Aslan knows that some Muslims will see his ideas about Islam as heresy or “apostasy.” What rhetorical strategies does he adopt to overcome that criticism?