Abstract
The Clash of Civilizations has been extensively refuted, but remains a highly
influential paradigm in international relations and intercultural discourse. It
must, therefore, be exposed as a fallacious abstraction, and defeated through
exploring ways to expand dialogue and intercultural communication. UN
initiatives of Alliance of Civilizations, Khatami's initiative of Dialogue
Among Civilizations and interfaith exchange are promising, but need to be
taken up with commitment, sincerity and vision, and made more participatory
and inclusive of authentic representatives across cultures. The West must
abandon the myth of its superiority over all other cultures and its Orientalist
lens vis-a-vis the East. It also needs to discard prejudice and stereotypes about
the 'Other.' Conflict resolution is an urgent need in order to end the feeling of
unfair victimization. Marginalized communities need to be integrated into the
mainstream. Commonalities in religious tradition and cultures have to be
highlighted and differences respectfully recognized. The role of religion in
creating tolerance and peaceful co-existence must be explored, particularly the
great potential of Islam as demonstrated in history for pluralism and
egalitarianism, both essential for defeating the 'Clash'. The grounds for it are
amply present both in the history of Islam, rich with narratives of pluralism,
tolerance and peaceful co-existence with diverse communities and in the
sacred texts of Islam - the Quran and the Prophet (SAW)‘s Sunnah. A
reinterpretation of these sources highlighting their vast potential for
conciliation and facilitation of intercultural dialogue is the need of the times.
Maryam Sakeenah. (2012) FOSTERING THE ‘FRATERNITY OF CIVILIZATIONS’ AND THE ROLE OF ISLAM, Journal of Islamic Thought and Civilization, Volume II, Issue 1.
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