Bernard Lewis What Went Wrong

Understanding Different Cultures Understanding how a culture was created, the values that play into the culture, and the history of a culture help guide individuals on communication, finding common ground, and establishing relationships that focus on growth and community. In the book What went Wrong?: Western Impact and Middle Eastern Response, by Bernard Lewis, there is discussion of the differences between Islamic and Wester Societies. Lewis states that the differences were, “…greater, more profound, yes somehow for long overlooked or not seen as relevant.” (Lewis 2002 64) Throughout the book Lewis focuses on three different subjects, including women, science, and music. Lewis claims that the three subjects, “…mark three crucial differences in approach, in attitude, and in perception between two neighboring civilizations.” (Lewis 2002 66) Even though there are these three crucial differences Lewis states that, “The status of women, though probably the most profound single difference between the two civilizations. “ (Lewis 2002 67) There is a difference in the roles and the positions that the women hold within each community that affects the views and ideas of how business should be conducted or how the community should be established. An example of the difference is that, “Christianity, of all churches and denominations, prohibits polygamy and concubinage. Islam, like other non-Christian communities, permits both.” …show more content…
Understanding the role that the women play in both communities is both effective and important when working in a business, especially when the business might have dealings with corporations in countries whose opinions differ about women. With the understanding advances the possibility for growth, communication, and the respect for both types of