(Untitled)

[blizzard2007]

random thought, would the state of fundamentalist Muslim countries today be comparable to the middle ages? politically, religously (in terms of fundamentalism), and socially?

Anyone know the economics of these Muslim nations?

Comments

[purplegrapes_]

I love the way Mr. Uetz explained it to me

[matchpoint23]

oil-based economies? i know some of the nations are filthy rich

[urg88]

There are definitely similarities, like the influence of religion, and restricted government. But in countries like Iran, there is a significant middle class, and some signs of reform (at least until the last elections.)

Actually, in the middle ages, the middle east was a cultural and academic center, with Baghdad being the capital of a Muslim empire.

I dont know exactly what changed, but I think it involved getting decimated by the mongols, and being perpetually occupied or under influence of a foriegn power for a significant portion thereafter.

I think economies are typical mixed economies with a lot of central planning and government ownership, intersparsed with private venture.

[blizzard2007]

yeah, but middle ages Europe compared to Muslim countries now. Unless that's what your first paragraph was addressing.

[urg88]

I meant to say that in the middle ages, the muslim countries were very advanced for their time period. (second chunk)

[pieshedder]

you make me feel guilty...:(

[blizzard2007]

tacos