A recipe for mashing civilisations
By Khaled Diab The migratory history of foodstuffs and cuisines reveals that our dinner tables, like our societies, are both
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Hagia Sophia: A symbolic bridge or wedge?
The Hagia Sophia must not become a mosque. If its status must change, it should become a space of tolerance, where both Christian and Muslim worship.
Read moreThe empire must not strike back
Nostalgia for empire in the Middle East misses two points: we’re not witnessing the “final end of imperialism” and imperialism did not bring order.
Read moreThe language of Arab (dis)unity
The romantic myth that Arabs share “one heart and one spirit” led pan-Arabism to talk unity while walking the path of disunity.
Read moreEgypt’s centuries-old leadership vacuum
Decades of authoritarianism and centuries of non-indigenous rule have led to a shortage of effective native leaders in Egypt, derailing the revolution.
Read moreA successful caliphate in six simple steps
ISIS really doesn’t get what restoring the caliphate means. Here’s how in six simple steps, from Caliphornian wine to cultural melting pots.
Read morePalestinian history ✝ – Christians are Arab too
Despite what some in the Knesset think, Christians in Israel are Arabs too and have been prominent in Palestinian politics, society and culture.
Read moreSpain, return and the other 1492
Spain’s recognition of the Jews it expelled ignores another historical crime: the Muslims forced out of Andalusia.
Read moreEgypt’s underground sisterhood
Egyptian women are under attack from a failing patriarchy. But what is overlooked is that they are fighting back through grassroots emancipation.
Read moreNews of revolution (part I): How the nascent print media gave birth to Egyptian nationalism
The spread of print media in the 19th century played a profound role in shaping modern Egyptian nationalism and its quest for full independence.
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