Democracy and Religion in the Middle East

Abstract

For most of the twentieth century, two ideas dominated political debate in the Middle East: nationalism and socialism. Sometimes the one, sometimes the other, sometimes the two in the devastating combination of national socialism, exercised enormous attraction. Both were of European origin; both from time to time enjoyed the active support of European powers. Both were adapted in various ways and with varying success to Middle Eastern conditions and needs. They gained at times passionate support and helped to accomplish significant changes.