Very good answer!!!That's a loaded question.....
There are times when religion can be a restrictive or a catalyst to violence and other times when it can be a great thing which brings people together......
I guess the situation dictates.
Extremism in any degree can be a bad thing...whether it's religious or political extremism.
During my Middle East adventures, I worked with many folks from different religions. Sometimes we would have long discussions, on good terms and I really explored their beliefs.
Hindo, after so many discussions, I still don't understand. There is no real logic to it.
Islam is actually very similar to the old testament in the bible and then came Jesus and Mohammed. Just two different prophets. Islam uses a bit more fear. I have worked with some very good honest people who were in the Islam religion. I once lost my wallet with $3,000 cash in it, rushing to a meeting, fell in the street. A guy found me, brought it back to me and refused a reward.