Ep 1. Charlie Rose - The Charlie Rose Islam Series: Inside Islam (July 1, 2011)

Charlie Rose season 7 episode 1, titled "The Charlie Rose Islam Series: Inside Islam," was a highly anticipated segment that aired on July 1, 2011. The episode featurede an in-depth exploration of Islam and offered viewers valuable insight into the religion, its customs, traditions, and practices, as well as its impact on the world at large.

Throughout the episode, host Charlie Rose interviewed a number of guests, including scholars and experts on Islam, as well as individuals who shared their personal experiences as Muslims. The program aimed to dispel common misperceptions about the religion, and offer a balanced, nuanced view of its teachings and principles.

One of the primary focuses of the episode was the issue of Islamophobia, highlighting the rise in anti-Muslim sentiment in the United States in the years following the 9/11 attacks. Charlie Rose spoke with several guests who offered their perspectives on this phenomenon, including Muslim Americans who have personally experienced discrimination and harassment. Through these discussions, the episode sought to educate viewers on the dangers of intolerance and prejudice, and to promote greater understanding and acceptance among different communities.

In addition to examining the social and political ramifications of Islamophobia, "Charlie Rose - The Charlie Rose Islam Series: Inside Islam" delves deeply into the religious beliefs and practices of Islam. Through interviews with scholars and religious leaders, the episode explores the fundamental principles of the faith and offers viewers a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of Islamic societies.

Topics explored in the episode include the Five Pillars of Islam, the role of the Quran in shaping Islamic beliefs and practices, and the importance of prayer and fasting in the lives of devout Muslims. Viewers also learn about the different sects within Islam, and how these factions have shaped the history and evolution of the religion over time.

The episode offers a broad range of perspectives on Islam, from the scholarly to the personal. Guests include prominent academics like Reza Aslan, author of "No God But God: The Origins, Evolution, and Future of Islam," and Imam Feisal Abdul Rauf, founder of the Cordoba Initiative, a nonprofit organization that focuses on improving Muslim-West relations.

The program also features interviews with everyday Muslims, who share their personal experiences and insights into their faith. These segments offer a powerful counterpoint to the negative stereotypes that often dominate media coverage of Islam, showcasing the diversity and complexity of Muslim communities around the world.

Overall, "Charlie Rose - The Charlie Rose Islam Series: Inside Islam" is a thought-provoking and informative exploration of one of the world's major religions. Through a variety of perspectives and voices, the episode offers viewers a nuanced and comprehensive understanding of Islam, and encourages greater dialogue and understanding between different cultures and communities.