Was the uproar caused as a result of the posting from the Danish cartoonist portraying the Prophet Mohammad, have been more of a cultural thing? Indeed.In the history of Semitic lands there is almost no tradition of using political cartoons to express opinions. Both the Jewish and Muslim traditions especially, use pictures sparingly and even more so when it comes to depicting any parts their religions. As we know, many aspects of what we (in the Western world) consider to be parts of daily life are considered in the East to be taboo. It is no wonder that the Danish cartoonist had to go in hiding after having severely offended an entire religion and cultural tradition. Sure, it shouldn't have been taken so seriously, and Muslims should have understood that cartoons are a very common form of expression in the West. But, can we expect that? Especially at a time when the religion already felt attacked by the entire world?
People in the west have built a strong tolerance for criticism through cartoons- because everything and practically everyone is criticized at one point or another. But we can't expect another culture that is not used to this to take cartoons with a grain of salt. A cartoonist in the west wouldn't survive very long if he were "Mr. Nice Guy". He has to be witty, aggressive and ABOVE all, critical.
People in the west have built a strong tolerance for criticism through cartoons- because everything and practically everyone is criticized at one point or another. But we can't expect another culture that is not used to this to take cartoons with a grain of salt. A cartoonist in the west wouldn't survive very long if he were "Mr. Nice Guy". He has to be witty, aggressive and ABOVE all, critical.But traditions are changing a bit in the Semitic world. It is verrrry slowly starting to open up to using cartoons as a way to bring out social criticism. According to a BBC article, the British Council is hosting a tour in the Middle East of an exhibit of political cartoons, from cartoonist who are from the region mainly, in order to show the impact that they can have.
For now, the anarchist, Mr. Kurt Westergaard, who lacked a bit of cultural understanding has come out from hiding. Can we claim its a matter of freedom of speech, or is it a matter of respect for traditions? It will be interesting to see how the Middle East develops their tolerance to the slow introduction of more critical cartoons.
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