Over the last few days, there have been outbreaks of violent protests around the Muslim world against Denmark and to some extent Europe over cartoons depicting the Prophet Muhammad.

I read Ryan Lynch's letter, "Some European newspapers irresponsibly ran cartoons," Feb. 8, in which he basically criticized the Danish and European papers for publishing offensive cartoons. For the most part, I agree with his assessment of the whole situation, but if one looks at the basics of his assertion, it is easy to understand that his message is not helpful to the freedom of speech that is cherished in the Western world. What we need to understand are the forces behind the protest. These forces range from efforts by groups with their own agenda to influence the Muslim masses into squaring off with the western world. I also see the issue of cartoon being politicized by radical elements to create the kind of clash of civilizations they would like to see. If taken for what they are, the cartoons convey the message in a different manner: humorously. It is therefore imperative that Western world is not held hostage to the interpretations that favor radicalism over moderation and understanding. There is certainly the need to promote dialogue so that future mishaps can be avoided. And that can only happen in an atmosphere that is favorable to freedom of information and different means of delivery; including cartoons.