For those who think Saudi is backwards (ie. Westerners)
I’m sure most of you know about the King Abdullah University for Science and Technology. But why is this important, besides the fact that it may make huge advances in science and technology? Well first, according to them, the Institute is important because it is based on the notion to:
- Create an international community of scholars dedicated to advanced science.
- Welcome leaders in science, technology, commerce, business, and education through appointments and partnerships.
- Provide researchers the freedom to be creative and experiment.
- Embody the highest international standards of scholarship, research, education, and learning.
- Provide unfettered access to information and share knowledge, skills, and expertise to achieve economic growth and prosperity.
- Nurture and protect freedom of research, thought, and discourse relating to scholarly work
But why do I think it’s most important? Saudi Arabia is the stereotype of rigid and backwards “Islamists” as percieved by the West. I really think that this move on the part of the Kingdom will help to encourage non-Muslims and non-Muslim countries to acknowledge the contributions of Muslims and Islamic empires throughout history. It is a great way to get our foot back in the door of science, I guess you could say. It seems that this university is really grounded on similiar principles as that of the Islamic empire during the golden age in which scholars and scientists of all religions, nationalities and now genders are welcomed to contribute to the modern scientific enterprise.
Hilary
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