The published perception of Islam is dominated by taboos that hinder, if not outright prevent, an open and intellectually honest engagement with the peculiarities of this religion and the power claims of many of its representatives. This situation allows for the emergence of a parallel society that sharply rejects the liberal, secular community, the advantages of which are taken for granted by the overwhelming majority. In light of this reality, Tilman Nagel advocates for a taboo-free examination of the characteristics of Islam that complicate fruitful participation of its adherents in our community. The author describes these characteristics from various perspectives, addressing both their historical and contemporary dimensions. Only through a reliable understanding of these features can one analyze the associated problems.