The Economic Prospects for the Middle East Listen

Forums: What can the U.S. do to improve relations with Middle Eastern countries?

Economic prospects in the Middle East are frequently discussed through the optic of Islam and modernization. Tonight's guest, Jeffrey Sachs, says it's wrong lens to use. Instead, he argues, the waxing and waning of Islamic economics and military fortunes can be better understood as a reflection of deep ecological and geographic factors rather than cultural forces.

This hour: the economic future of the Middle East.

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George and Laura Bush pray at the National Prayer Service

Forums: Does the increased religious rhetoric out of Washington worry you?

The Revival of Public Religion in Politics Listen

Many Americans have turned to prayer for comfort and support since 9-11 and so have our political leaders. But some find the combination of patriotism and religion being practiced in the marbled corridors of Congress deeply troubling, given how embedded the idea of separation of church and state is to the nation.

Last month, a quarter of the legislature met for a private day of prayer within the Capitol Building. Patriotism has been tied to religion in the rhetoric from many politicians. This hour, the blurring line between church and state.

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