SEGHAYERThe devastating September 11 attacks were a turning point in modern history. Nations and even ordinary individuals all over the world were profoundly affected. The event prompted all people to reflect. Nations collectively looked deeper into their policies and visions and, in some instances, closely examined some of their values and beliefs. The Muslim world, in particular, called for an open dialogue with the rest of the world, especially the Western world. Yet unanswered questions remain: How should the dialogue with others be carried out? What are the issues to consider for constructive and successful dialogue with people of other nations? The prerequisite to any effective and successful dialogue is to first identify common goals and values. Misunderstanding among the world community is overwhelming. People of the West often present themselves as the upholders of democratic values and respecters or protectors of individual freedom. They often regard people of the East—and in particular Muslim nations, based on ignorance of other cultures and values—as preoccupied with the past and lacking in creative engagement and thinking on modern issues. Both worlds, instead, need to work toward common goals and use their knowledge and beliefs for the service of humanity. We members of the Muslim world need to take a number of measures. We need first to have greater respect for people from other nations. This is a necessary step simply because we live in a diverse universe made up of many different cultures, languages, races, and backgrounds. This diversity can make all of our lives a lot more fun and interesting, but only if we show respect for those who are different from us. Thus, when we indulge in dialogue with others, we should value their opinions, strive to be considerate and sensitive to their preferences and feelings, learn something from them, and never stereotype people. Additionally, we should develop an interest in and appreciation for other people's cultures and backgrounds and avoid prejudices and racist attitudes. We should learn to appreciate people's differences rather than fear them. It is equally important to know that diversity, perspective, and variation are natural elements of life and that having others with whom we share different points of view is a great thing. Substantial work must come from within ourselves. We need to educate our forthcoming generations in the “art of arguement”. In more specific terms, we need to direct their attention to when and how to argue and help them get more out of life by appreciating different perspectives to share and exchange. Furthermore, we should teach an essential trait: When arguing, they should strive to focus the discussion on the issue under consideration and always avoid personal attacks. They should always begin their argument with positive remarks in which the other person's opinion is acknowledged. It is no accusation or attempt to stigmatize when I state that many Muslims generally exhibit hostility to ideas and perceptions that do not correspond with their own beliefs. They are preoccupied with some symptoms, including intolerance, literalism, the need to control and limit free expression and creative thought, and the impression that they are the only privileged group who have the right to present and interpret the truth. This attitude of assigning righteousness or truth to one group of people works against the basic tenet of Islamic teachings. The Muslim world is facing unprecedented challenges on a global scale, and it is time to combat such challenges in a civil manner. One way to accomplish such a goal is to listen to the world and establish wide outlets to reach out to others. (The writer is a Saudi academic who can be reached at [email protected]) __
