Europe and Islam

New Books on Clash of Civilizations

In my February 7^th blog, Iraq Conundrum, I had an extensive discussion on the lack of modernization of Islam and the resulting risk of a clash of civilizations. I have referred

several books and articles on the subject, and the article published in February 8^th’s New York Times, (In Books, a Clash of Europe and Islam by Patricia Cohen), provides references to other recently published books on the topic.

Ms. Cohen’s article highlights the controversy generated by Bruce Bawer’s book, While Europe Slept. Some called it “racism as criticism”, but Mr. Bawer defended his views by pointing out that “one of the most disgraceful developments of our time is that many Western authors and intellectuals who pride themselves on being liberal have effectively aligned themselves with an outrageously illiberal movement that rejects equal rights for women, that believes gays and Jews should be executed, that supports the coldblooded murder of one’s own children in the name of honor, etc., etc.,”. His book warns that “by appeasing a totalitarian ideology” Europe “was imperiling its liberty”.

Religion, and particularly the Muslim background of Senator Barack Hussein Obama, despite his claim that he is a secular Christian, will be quite prominent during debates leading to Democratic primaries and other nominating processes. Already questions are being raised regarding the Mormon background of former Massachusetts governor Mitt Romney who is seeking the Republican nomination.