The Representation of Christianity and the West in School Textbooks in the Middle East. Main conclusions and findings of a German research Projekt

The aim is to find out about the quantitative and qualitative representation of Christianity in different countries of the Middle East. On the basis of this investigation we try to encourage an open discussion on education for religious tolerance and peace as we believe that there will be no peace if there is no peace between religions. The main findings and conclusions of the four countries differ a lot. There is not one monolithic approach regarding the portrayal of other religions in the Middle East, but there is a need for differentiation. Also the climate of dialogue on pedagogical issues is very different in every country. There is not "the" Islamic or Middle Eastern approach to Christianity.