An Examination of the Proposition that Islamic Law Has Impeded Economic Development in the Middle East

The general perception in the developed world is that Islamic Law, or Sharia’a, has had a negative impact on the economic development of the Middle Eastern countries. It should not, however, be ignored that the same geographical region was once far ahead in scientific and economic development. It is therefore reasonable to assume that there are other reasons underlying this change in fortunes. This paper explores the different factors impacting economic growth and decline in the Middle Eastern region.