Researching Biology and Evolution in the Gulf States: Networks of Science in the Middle East (Library of Modern Middle East Studies)

"Officials and religious scholars in the Gulf states have repeatedly banned the teaching of the theory of evolution because of its association with atheism. But Jorg Matthias Determann argues here that, despite official prohibition, research on biological evolution has flourished, due in large part to the development of academic and professional networks. This book traces these networks through the history of various branches of biology, including botany, conservation research, ornithology and palaeontology. Typical of rentier societies, some of the scientific networks in this region consist of vertical patron-client relationships. For example, those in power who are interested in wildlife conservation have been known to offer patronage to biologists working on desert ecology. However, just as important are the horizontal links between scientists both within the Gulf region and beyond. Given the strengths and importance of these two forms of professional networks, Determann argues that we should look at the Arab world as an area interconnected with global science, and therefore fully integrated into the scientific and technological advances being pioneered worldwide."--Bloomsbury Publishing. Officials and religious scholars in the Gulf states have repeatedly banned the teaching and researching of the theory of evolution because of its association with atheism. In Saudi Arabia, not only religious, but also science textbooks by the Ministry of Education promote an account of life's creation by God. Yet Jörg Matthias Determann argues here that, despite official prohibition, research on biological evolution has flourished, due in large part to the development of academic and professional networks. This book traces these networks through the history of various branches of biology, including botany, conservation research, ornithology and palaeontology. Typical of rentier societies, some of the scientific networks in this region consist of vertical patron-client relationships. For example, those in power who are interested in wildlife conservation have been known to offer patronage to biologists working on desert ecology. However, just as important are the horizontal links between scientists both within the Gulf region and beyond. Through interviews with biologists working in the Gulf monarchies, and through analysis of their publications, Determann identifies how researchers support the theory of evolution in an environment shaped by official challenges. By asking what has enabled these scientists to incorporate the theory into then work. Determann offers a new perspective on science in the Middle East. He argues that we should look at the Arab world as an area both interconnected with global science and fully integrated into pioneering scientific and technological advances. Book jacket "Officials and religious scholars in the Gulf states have repeatedly banned the teaching of the theory of evolution because of its association with atheism. But Jorg Matthias Determann argues here that, despite official prohibition, research on biological evolution has flourished, due in large part to the development of academic and professional networks. This book traces these networks through the history of various branches of biology, including botany, conservation research, ornithology and palaeontology. Typical of rentier societies, some of the scientific networks in this region consist of vertical patron-client relationships. For example, those in power who are interested in wildlife conservation have been known to offer patronage to biologists working on desert ecology. However, just as important are the horizontal links between scientists both within the Gulf region and beyond. Given the strengths and importance of these two forms of professional networks, Determann argues that we should look at the Arab world as an area interconnected with global science, and therefore fully integrated into the scientific and technological advances being pioneered worldwide."--Publisher's website Dedication Contents List of Figures Abbreviations Acknowledgements Transliteration, Translation and References Dramatis Personae 1. Scientific Gulf 2. Plant Kingdoms 3. Sultans, Consultants and Conservationists 4. Scientific Islands of Efficiency 5. Missing Links 6. Rentier Science Notes Bibliography Index Introduction -- Chapter 1: Hubs and Webs of Botany -- Chapter 2: Conservation Connections -- Chapter 3: Bird Webs -- Chapter 4: The Missing Link -- Conclusion A unique analysis of the networks and perils at play in the Gulf when researching a controversial subject such as evolution.