This book is a critical examination of Western attitudes towards the East, particularly the Middle East, and how these attitudes have shaped and continue to shape Western policies and perceptions. The author argues that the West has a long history of viewing the East as the "other," exotic and inferior, and that this view has been institutionalized through academic disciplines, literature, and media. This "Orientalism," as the author calls it, has served to justify colonialism and imperialism, and continues to influence Western attitudes and policies towards the East today.

The novel delves into the introspective journey of Franz Ritter, an ailing musicologist in Vienna, as he reflects on his past travels and intellectual pursuits in the Middle East. Through a series of fragmented memories and scholarly musings, he explores themes of cultural exchange, historical interconnectedness, and the profound impact of Orientalism on Western thought. The narrative oscillates between personal anecdotes and broader philosophical reflections, painting a rich tapestry of cross-cultural encounters and the enduring quest for understanding and connection.

Été 1985 à New York : des jeunes femmes sont assassinées chez elles, et une gondole en papier mâché est retrouvée à côté de chaque corps. L’inspecteur Karlov doit élucider comment le tueur parvient à pénétrer les foyers de ses victimes avant que la ville ne sombre dans la panique et que le meurtrier ne frappe à nouveau.

This book delves into the fascinating journey of how Buddhist thought was introduced and interpreted in the West, tracing the origins back to the encounters between European intellectuals and Asian cultures. It explores the notion of "Oriental Philosophy" as a construct of Western imagination, shaped by the translations and interpretations of texts that were often misunderstood or taken out of context. The author critically examines the romanticization and misconceptions that led to the creation of a mystical and exotic Eastern philosophy, highlighting the impact of these interpretations on both Western perceptions of Buddhism and the development of modern philosophy. Through a meticulous historical analysis, the book reveals the complex dynamics of cultural exchange, intellectual curiosity, and the quest for spiritual understanding, shedding light on the enduring fascination with the concept of emptiness and the cultural constructs that have emerged around it.

The book explores the complex and often contentious relationship between the Islamic world and Western civilization, tracing historical interactions, conflicts, and exchanges from the early days of Islam to the modern era. It delves into the cultural, political, and religious dynamics that have shaped perceptions and misunderstandings on both sides. The author examines key events and themes, such as colonialism, modernization, and the rise of fundamentalism, offering insights into how these factors have influenced contemporary global tensions and dialogues between the two regions.