How do Muslims view the West?

Among the things Muslims admire are the West's technology and fair political systems.

from the May 16, 2008 edition

What do a billion Muslims really think?

The Gallup Poll of the Muslim World is the most comprehensive study ever done of this group. Many key results counter conventional wisdom. Read more...

Is Islam compatible with democracy?

Many cite the equal importance of democracy and Islam to the progress of the Muslim world. Read more...

How do Muslims view women's rights?

Many Muslims believe that women should have the right to vote and to hold any job outside the home that they qualify for. Read more...

What makes a radical?

When asked why they supported the 9/11 attacks, the radicals gave political rather than religious reasons. Read more...

How do Muslims view the West?

Among the things Muslims admire are the West's technology and fair political systems. Read more...

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Reporter Jane Lampman talks with Dalia Mogahed, executive director of the Gallup Center for Muslim Studies.

•When asked what they most admire about the West, Muslims pointed to (1) technology, (2) a value system of hard work, self-responsibility, rule of law, and cooperation, and (3) fair political systems, with respect for human rights, democracy, and gender equality.

•What they dislike the most about the West includes: denigration of Islam and Muslims, promiscuity, and ethical and moral corruption.

•What they admire least about their own Muslim societies includes: lack of unity, economic and political corruption, and extremism.

•Most Muslims agree on what the West should do first to improve relations: demonstrate more respect, show more understanding of Islam as a religion, and not denigrate what it stands for. The issues that drive radicals are also important to mainstream Muslims, but they differ in their priorities and the degree of politicization and alienation. Moderate Muslims next hope for Western policies that support economic development. Radicals are more focused on the West discriminating less against Muslims and refraining from interference in the internal affairs of Muslim countries.

•As for the actions that Muslims themselves could take to improve relations, those surveyed recommended: respect the West's optimism and values of freedom of speech and religion, reduce and control extremism and terrorism, and "modernize."