Islam and the West

Rating:
Summary: analysis that treats Islam with respect
Review: This book, Islam and the West, is a collection of essays combined to provide three different aspects to the Islamic world. It provides insight to the deeply religious Islamic world and helps to dispelled myths about the vastly different culture. Islam and the West bridged the gap between western ideas and the Islamic values, creating a better grasp on the actions of the Islamic world.
Bernard Lewis' book has much to offer its reader, particularly if the reader is has any desire to understand Middle East relations. As Lewis suggests in his book, it is impossible to understand Middle East relations without understanding the Muslim religion and this book provides much of that understanding. This book is a learned, forceful analysis that treats Islam with respect, not condescension. The greatest benefit a reader can gain from Islam and the West, is the rare opportunity to step out of one worldview and catch a glimpse of another.