“There Is Freedom of Religion in Finland, But…” The Helsinki Mosque Debate

In this chapter, we examine statements of Finnish municipal election candidates regarding plans to build a “grand mosque” and cultural centre in central Helsinki. Despite proclaiming support for the universal freedom of religion, the candidates were hesitant to apply it to the mosque case. Opponents of the mosque project emphasized the Christian heritage of Finland and portrayed the proposed mosque as a channel through which foreign conflicts could enter Finnish society. The mosque was also opposed because it was seen as a “political” project instead of a “religious” one. The proponents of the mosque, in turn, considered it to be a “Muslim church” and therefore entitled to the same treatment as Christian houses of worship. The mosque was also seen as important to the local Muslim community, but very few candidates considered the possibility of the mosque (or Islam) making a positive contribution to the broader society. Besides identifying the key discourses, we reflect on them from a religious literacy perspective.Peer reviewe

Laser deposition of thin films from La₀.₇Ca₀.₃MnO₃ targets prepared by sol-gel and solid-state methods

The composition of the films prepared from the SG target is closer to ideal than the composition of the films made from the SS target. The SG films have a steeper magnetic transition and smoother surface than the SS films. Therefore the SG material is better suited for deposition of smooth thin filmsyesBelgorod State Universit