Globalization and the “Olive Tree” of Islam

Globalization is bringing international populations into ever-greater contact. Media and the Internet is reaching across nations and continents like never before. While many cultures welcome diffusion and are interested in different ideas and values, this is not always the case. People are wary of those unlike themselves and some cultures feel threatened by the West, the major force behind market capitalism. Specifically, many in the Muslim world feel their religion and customs are incompatible with western culture. This conflict is not unique to the modern era, but is a resurgence of an old feud between Christianity and Islam that reared its head most dramatically during the Crusades. Today, due to globalization, the conflict is worldwide. Representing the tip of the spear is Al Qaeda, a radical network that denounces the West, while at the same time using modern technology to conduct attacks in New York City, Bali, Africa, Central Asia, and the Philippines. The conduct and outcome of this war will shape the world and represents the greatest security problem in the age of globalization.Read more