what is the christian left? (was: RE: Abortion and the Death Pena lty (To Rakesh))

[Carl Remick]

In the interest of outreach, what about a discussion also of the
"Islamic left"?  I've always been intrigued by Islamic strictures on
usury -- which, consistently enforced, would of course strike at the
foundations of capitalism.  I recognize that Islam, as practiced, finds
convenient ways around these anti-usury provisions.  However, I think
this is a fruitful line for inquiry, and with the disturbing, growing
split between Western and Islamic societies, I think Westerners like
myself would benefit from learning as much as possible about Islam in
the hope of finding common ground.