Scientific and Technological Underdevelopment and Militarization in the Muslim World

Abstract

The Muslim world is characterized, in part, by the persistent neglect of research and training in basic as well as applied sciences. There is neither appreciation nor the felt need for indigenous science and technology. This state of affairs is largely due to the nature of weak state formation, perceived elite illegitimacy and consequent militarization of the state. Militarization has deprived the Muslim world of its resources which could have been deployed in more productive services. As such, there is a marked increase in the signs of decay in the Muslim world exemplified by crumbling infrastructures, broken down communications, abandoned projects, and consequent increasing perception of the illegitimacy of those in power. Until the Muslim world succeeds in breaking the vicious cycle of illegitimacy leading to militarization, bringing about further illegitimacy, science and technology cannot prosper.