Jerusalem Center for Security and Foreign Affairs (JCFA)

Strategic Alliances for a Secure, Connected, and Prosperous Region

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The Quest for Democratic Political Reforms in the Middle East and the Prevailing Arab Political Culture

March 1, 2005 | David Govrin

President Bush's perception of democracy as being at the forefront of American foreign policy is a change from the traditional U.S. policy in the Middle East of realpolitik - supporting the stability of friendly leaders no matter how autocratic they are. The fundamental political culture of Muslim Arab societies is based on the unquestionable sovereignty of God, and democracy and popular sovereignty, in its Western sense, appear to be contrary to this concept.

Is Compromise Possible in Matters Between Man and God?

October 30, 2000 | Yuval Cherlow