EP,

I tend to agree with you on this, except for the fact that Islamic countries generally have a very poor record on their treatment of women. I think Phil is in part over reacting to attempts to portray the islamic world as morally equal. Most here disagree with that for reason's like that or others. On the other hand I believe the islamic world is far truer to their religious beliefs as a whole than the western world so in that sense they can rightly claim moral superiority. You are quite correct that anecdotal incidents are no basis for moral judgements.

My basis for moral judgement is taking the action out of reasonably available options that benefits the most people. On that basis the Islamic regions of the world come up short. Whether it is the basic tenets of the religion or the prevailing interpretations is open for debate. I tend to believe the later based on the Muslim's I've known who are generally as good or kinder than most Americans.

Regards,
Mark