
A message from Professor Andrew O’Neil
News 28 MayAn update from the Executive Dean of Law and Business Professor Andrew O'Neil.
05 April 2016
Share
ACU’s Dr Irfan Ahmad warned against over-religionising the issue of terrorism to the exclusion of political, economic and international factors at a recent United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) conference in Oslo.
He also was critical of media outlets, which promoted terrorism through sensationalism by way of producing stereotypes well before evidence was furnished.
He argued that to effectively overcome terrorism we need a common definition of terrorism applicable to all contexts.
“What was the rationale for the United Nations to leave definition of “terrorism” and “violent extremism” to a member state and at the same time invoke the “power of our shared principles, purposes and values.
”The Associate Professor of Political Anthropology from the Institute for Religion, Politics, & Society (IRPS) was invited to speak at the UNDP conference entitled Preventing Violent Extremism by Promoting Inclusive Development, Tolerance and Respect for Diversity.
Dr Ahmad, who leads the research stream of Asian Societies and Their Religions at the IRPS in Melbourne and co-edits along with its Director, Bryan S. Turner, Journal of Religious and Political Practice, presented a paper titled Religion and Violent Extremism: An Anthropological Perspective from India.
Speaking at the session on Faith-based Organizations and Religious Leaders and drawing from his research in India, Dr. Ahmad stressed the need for credible empirical research for an adequate understanding and effective formulation of any policy to combat terrorism.
In particular, he highlighted how media rather than mitigate or solve the issue of terrorism also promoted it through sensationalism by way of producing stereotypes well before evidence was furnished.While noting the role of religion, he introduced a cautionary note against over-religionising the issue of terrorism to the exclusion of political, economic and international factors.
“Before we begin inter-religious dialogue, there should also be inter-political dialogue,” he said.
The talk was followed by a brief but lively discussion with audience who came from over 50 nation-states.
An update from the Executive Dean of Law and Business Professor Andrew O'Neil.
Expect a few email notifications as we prepare to welcome you to Viva Engage next week.
ACU is developing a new Education and Student Success Plan to ensure our university continues to provide a high-quality, student-centred learning experience. Find out how you can contribute to the pla...
A reminder to all academic staff that the mandatory Notice of Intent, for those intending to apply for promotion in the 2025 round, must be submitted by 11.59pm this Friday (30 May).
Include an additional survey item in the Student Evaluation of Learning and Teaching (SELT) survey for units that are offered in Professional Term 4 (202547).
Register for these 15-minute sessions to learn more about the variety of online researcher profile platforms and what is involved in setting up, linking and updating your profile.
Lecturers-in-charge can make a direct determination of Poor Academic Practice (PAP) for students who engage in minor forms of academic misconduct. Learn why they can be valuable to staff and students.
You're invited to join your Campus Community of Learning Advancement - a professional learning community focused on collaborative workplace learning.
A message from the Executive Dean Faculty of Education and Arts Professor Mary Ryan.
The Semester 1 2025 Student Evaluation of Learning and Teaching (SELT) surveys will close on 29 June. Students say they are more likely to complete the surveys if they are reminded in class and unders...
ACU librarians have recently begun using Rayyan for screening and collaboration. It is a free alternative to Covidence that can assist with systematic review workflows. Read more about Rayyan and othe...
The Academic Board Digest from meeting 02/2025 held on 15 April 2025 is now available.
Tomorrow, 15 May, is International Day of Families. To celebrate, let’s hear from ACU staff member Martina Donaghy about how flexible working has helped her manage care for her young daughter after re...
Student Advocacy Service is running an information session designed to provide staff with a clearer understanding of the scope of support available to students.
Explore the future of assessment with Interactive Orals. We’ll be joined by expert, Danielle Logan-Fleming to share valuable insights into this transformative model and its impact across disciplines.
A message from the Executive Dean of Health Sciences Professor Suzanne Chambers.
Academic promotions provides an opportunity to recognise and reward your achievements at your current level of appointment that warrant promotion to the next academic level. Register to attend an info...
Advance HE is offering free webinars on Student Success and Advance HE Fellowships in May and June as part of their Australasian Member Benefit Series.
Recent cyber-attacks on Australian organisations have highlighted the need to protect yourself online. Learn more about infostealers and what you can do to stay safe.
As artificial intelligence tools become part of everyday academic work, questions around copyright are more important than ever. This workshop on 22 May will focus on the copyright implications of usi...
Visit Service Central to access Corporate Services.