About this episode
In this high-stakes debate at AmFest, two speakers tackle one of the most controversial political questions of our time: Is Islam compatible with Western society? The discussion dives into theology, constitutional law, freedom of speech, church-state separation, blasphemy laws, apostasy, polygamy, and whether religious doctrine should shape modern democracies. Both sides challenge each other on scripture, historical context, sociological data, and the role of the U.S. Constitution. Rather than a surface-level argument, this debate explores deeper issues about how religious traditions interact with secular governance β and whether Western liberal values can coexist with strong religious identity. This is a raw exchange of ideas. No editing. No filters. Just arguments, counterarguments, and a clash of worldviews. π― What Youβll Learn ποΈ The core arguments around religion and Western constitutional values π How scripture is interpreted differently across traditions βοΈ The debate over blasphemy laws, apostasy, and freedom of speech π How sociological studies are used (and challenged) in religious debates π§ The difference between religious doctrine and state law π Whether separation of church and state resolves compatibility concerns CHAPTERS 0:00 β Transparency question + why members are βscaredβ to ask 0:45 β Ex-members vs believers + the BITE control model explained 2:40 β Religion, politics, and power: whoβs really driving who? 5:00 β How the internet triggered Mormon decline 7:00 β Africa growth strategy + shifting missionary focus 9:15 β $300B church wealth + land ownership shocker 11:00 β Tithing enforcement + temple access pressure 16:50 β Abuse scandals + Protect LDS Children fallout 23:00 β Does religion do more good than harm? Loneliness debate 34:00 β Ruby Franke case + when belief systems go dark ποΈ APPLY OR CONNECT π Interested in being a guest? Apply here: https://www.digitalsocialhour.com πΌ SPONSORS Affordable way to protect your family financially https://selectquote.com/dsh π₯ Fuel your health with Viome: https://buy.viome.com/SEAN Use code βSeanβ at checkout for a discount! The Light Systems: https://www.thelightsystems.com/ Discount Code: SEAN QUINCE: https://quince.com/dsh π© Business Inquiries & Sponsorships sean@digitalsocialhour.com π€ GUEST Sulaiman Ahmed: https://www.instagram.com/sulaimanahmedx/ Michael Jones: https://www.instagram.com/inspiringphilosophy_/? π§ LISTEN TO THE PODCAST π Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/digital-social-hour/id1676846015 π΅ Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5Jn7LXarRlI8Hc0GtTn759 πΈ Follow the Host Sean Kelly on Instagram: @seanmikekelly β οΈ DISCLAIMER The views and opinions expressed by guests on Digital Social Hour are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the host, Sean Kelly, or the Digital Social Hour team. The host and producers are not responsible for statements, claims, or opinions shared by guests during the show. This content is intended for informational and entertainment purposes only and should not be considered legal, medical, financial, or professional advice. Listeners are encouraged to do their own research and consult qualified professionals when appropriate. While we aim to share accurate and reliable information, no guarantees are made regarding completeness or accuracy. π₯ Stay tuned for more conversations with creators, founders, and innovators shaping the digital world. π KEYWORDS Islam and the West debate, religion and democracy, blasphemy laws debate, apostasy laws discussion, separation of church and state, AmFest debate, religious freedom, freedom of speech and religion, Islam vs Western values, Christianity and Western civilization, theological debate, political philosophy discussion, constitutional law and religion, religious compatibility debate, modern religious conflict discussion Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.