Christian Quote by Bernard Lewis
“I think confronted with the modern world or with the rest of the world, I think people are becoming aware that the Western and Islamic civilizations have more in common than apart. It was a German scholar, C. H. Becker, who said a long time ago that the real dividing line is not between Islam and Christendom; it's the dividing line East of Islam, between the Islamic and Christian worlds together on the one hand and the rest of the world on the other. I think there is a lot of truth in that.”
About This Quote
Source Book: The Middle East: A Brief History of the Last 2,000 Years by Bernard Lewis, 1995
Western and Islamic civilizations share more common ground than differences; the true divide is between these combined cultures and the rest of the world.
In simple terms: West and Islam are more alike; the real split is with other cultures.
Key Takeaway
Recognize shared values across West and Islam.
Themes
culture
civilization
commonality
geopolitics
Mood
thoughtful
analytical
Type
historical
philosophical
When to use this quote
- international relations
- education
- media analysis
Key Concepts
interfaith dialogue
historical perspective
Questions to Reflect On
- How can we foster cooperation beyond binary divisions?
- What examples show West-Islam synergy?
A Different Perspective
Assumes a binary view of "the rest of the world".
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