Clash Between Islam and Modernity in the Middle East

For centuries, the Islamic world stood at the forefront of human achievement - a powerful force in military and economic matters, and a leader in the arts and sciences of civilization. Meanwhile, Christian Europe was viewed as a primitive and unbelieving land with nothing valuable to offer or to fear. However, everything changed dramatically. The West began to achieve victory after victory, starting on the battlefield and expanding into the marketplace.

Bernard Lewis, a respected expert in Islamic studies, delves into the troubled response of the Islamic world as it grappled with being surpassed, overshadowed, and dominated by the West. Through his eloquent prose, he paints a compelling picture of a culture in distress. Lewis reveals how the Middle East shifted its focus towards understanding European advancements in weaponry, industry, government, education, and culture. He also explores how some individuals in the region sought to place blame on external factors, while others sought to understand their own missteps.

This insightful volume, with a new Afterword discussing the events of September 11 and their repercussions, is an essential read for anyone interested in current affairs. What Went Wrong? provides a timely and accessible analysis that sheds light on the complex dynamics between the Islamic world and the West.

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