One of the things we talked about in class today was why the Islamic religion is perceived as being so strict. I think that one of the things that points to this is the rigidity of the requirements and what people think the punishments are for breaking them. The Muslim religion requires scheduled prayers, fasting, etc. I think something else that goes into this misconception is what others believe the punishment is for breaking these rules. This is interesting because there are so many other things that people adhere to in life just as strictly that are not perceived the same way. There are so many people who stick to a strict diet or workout regimen, study schedule, sleep timing, etc. It is interesting to think about why these are not perceived in the same way, when there are other habits that are much more harmful – drugs, and alcohol use, etc. I think that Islam has been faced with a lot of prejudice and fear which is why it is perceived as being stern.