
The Economic and Political History Podcast
Political History of the Middle East | Timur Kuran with Javier Mejia
Sep 11, 2023
Timur Kuran, a Professor of Economics and Political Science at Duke University, engages in a compelling discussion about the intertwined legacies of Islamic law and politics in the Middle East. He challenges the misconception that Islam alone obstructs freedom, illustrating how historical institutional choices significantly contribute to the region’s struggles for liberalization. Kuran argues that despite systemic repression, there are seeds of liberalization within Islamic history. He also highlights the vital role of civil society and unique economic barriers hindering progress in the region.
01:17:06
Episode guests
AI Summary
AI Chapters
Episode notes
Podcast summary created with Snipd AI
Quick takeaways
- Timur Kuran argues that Islamic legal institutions have historically limited political freedom and economic growth across varying political regimes in the Middle East.
- Despite current repression, Kuran suggests a potential for future liberalization driven by a younger, increasingly secular population challenging traditional norms.
Deep dives
Timur Koran's Academic Journey
Timur Koran, raised in Turkey and educated in the United States, developed a keen interest in the factors influencing long-term economic development and democratization from an early age. His academic path led him from economic theory to exploring the intersection of economics, political science, and religion. Koran's crisis during his graduate studies prompted him to pivot away from popular topics to pursue issues he found genuinely compelling, such as preference falsification and the political economy of religion. This shift underscored the importance of following one’s intellectual passions rather than conforming to mainstream academic trends.
Remember Everything You Learn from Podcasts
Save insights instantly, chat with episodes, and build lasting knowledge - all powered by AI.