The Fate of Abraham cover art

The Fate of Abraham

Why the West is Wrong about Islam

 Preview

Get 30 days of Standard free

£5.99/mo after trial. Cancel monthly.
Try for £0.00
More purchase options
Buy Now for £15.79

Buy Now for £15.79

About this listen

 As the Cold War faded into history, it appeared to have been replaced by a new conflict - between Islam and the West. Or so we are told. After the events of 9/11 and the advent of the 'war on terror', this narrative seemed prophetic. But, as Peter Oborne reveals in this masterful new analysis, the concept of an existential clash between the two is a dangerous and destructive fantasy.

Based on rigorous historical research and forensic contemporary journalism that leads him frequently into war-torn states and bloody conflict zones, Oborne explains the myths, fabrications and downright lies that have contributed to this pernicious state of affairs. He shows how various falsehoods run deep, reaching back as far as the birth of Islam, and have then been repurposed for the modern day. Many in senior positions in governments across the West have suggested that Islam is trying to overturn our liberal values and even that certain Muslims are conspiring to take over the state, while Douglas Murray claims in his new book that we face a 'War on the West'. But in reality, these fears merely echo past debates, as we continue to repeat the pattern of seemingly wilful ignorance.

With murderous attacks on Muslims taking place from Bosnia in 1995 to China today, Oborne dismantles the falsehoods that lie behind them, and he opens the way to a clearer and more truthful mutual understanding that will benefit us all in the long run.

 Politics & Government War Middle East Thought-Provoking Iran Imperialism Africa Middle Ages China Cold War

Critic reviews

'Oborne has taken up the unpopular cause of British Muslims, who feel misrepresented by politicians and the newspapers... The popular idea that there is a "clash of civilsations" between the West and Islam has resulted in failed wars abroad and shameful persecution at home... His analysis of the web of think tanks, politicians and journalists shaping the narrative around British Muslims is certainly eye-opening.' (Sameer Rahim)
'There is plenty of interesting material here. Most readers will probably not realise that the American navy was created as a response to the depredations of “Barbary” pirates in the early 19th century. The heart, however, of Oborne’s book...represents an admirable piece of sustained investigative journalism. For those interested in the malign impact of Islamophobia in Britain, [the book] genuinely breaks new ground and deserves to be widely read and debated.' (Dr Philip Lewis)
All stars
Most relevant
The only thing I’d say is Islam is a religion and not a culture. Writers need to make this distinction more clear.

A great read! Well researched!

Something went wrong. Please try again in a few minutes.
Very much enjoyed the historical journey and providing me with previously unknown reasons for tensions in Middle East

Insightful

Something went wrong. Please try again in a few minutes.
Both a vast sweep of history and deeply personal filled with aha moments. I now view current world (and domestic) events through a different, more informed lense.

Probably the most important book to read this year.

Something went wrong. Please try again in a few minutes.
Everyone should read this book, it is well researched, detailed and educational.
Highly recommend.

Powerful, insightful and sometimes very moving.

Something went wrong. Please try again in a few minutes.
I learnt a lot and a lot of that was disturbing. This really is a fantastic book well read and a must buy.

Disturbing

Something went wrong. Please try again in a few minutes.
See more reviews