More than half of Americans acknowledge having a poor understanding of Islam, even though they support President Barack Obama's plan to seek improved relations with the Muslim world, according to a new opinion poll released late Sunday.
The survey by The Washington Post and ABC News showed that 55 per cent of those polled said they lacked a good understanding of the teachings and beliefs of Islam.
Forty-eight percent said they had an unfavorable view of Islam while nearly three in 10, or 29 per cent, said they saw mainstream Islam as advocating violence against non-Muslims.
At the same time, 58 per cent said Islam was a peaceful religion, according to the poll. In his inaugural address, President Obama offered to 'extend a hand' to Muslim nations if they are willing to accept it.
Nearly two-thirds of respondents said Obama will handle this diplomacy 'about right.'
However, nearly a quarter said he will probably 'go too far' and nine percent said it was more likely he will not go far enough.
The survey, conducted by telephone March 26-29, had a margin of sampling error of plus or minus three percentage points.
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