I have been asked one question over and over again during my research with Muslim communities living in the West: why is it that Muslims are negatively portrayed by some parts of the media? Given that such a tiny proportion of Muslims choose to take the path of violence, one wonders why is it that the larger Muslim community gets labelled as part of the problem.

A typical answer from Islamic leaders is that the "West" hates Islam because it is a threat to their evil ways and that the faith of Muslims terrifies the "unbelievers" due to the rise of Islam that is coming.

Imagine how the perception of Muslims would change if they won headlines for scientific discoveries rather than acts of terrorism. Credit:Peter Braig

But the reason we, as Muslims, are labelled in a particular way might have more to do with the inaction and apathy of Muslims to provide a counter narrative.

The terrorists are evil, without any doubt, but they are committed to their cause and have through their actions, not just their words, shaken up and monopolised the discussion about Islam.