The author discusses the difference between perception and reality in the context of the history of relations between the littoral peoples of the Mediterranean. The sources of misunderstanding are examined, particularly the perception of oppression by states or religions over the centuries, and he recommends a meeting of minds to write a history of the area that could be used for teaching, regardless of religion, to help in the elimination of phobia and hate.
The Mediterranean Peoples: Closing the Gap (Tribune n° 58)
To individuals as well as peoples, what constitutes reality is not the real situation but their perception of it. It is this perception which determines their behaviour, beliefs and actions. Sometimes, when their perception is too far removed from the reality, the result can be pathologies on the part of individuals and groups. A paranoid individual may believe that he is under threat or is persecuted and will behave accordingly. On a larger scale, a people, leaders or even a state may have a perception of an event or situation far removed from reality, which can unleash an international crisis liable to escalate to war. In such cases, reassurance in the form of confidence measures can help to change perceptions.
The history of relations between the littoral peoples of the Mediterranean can be understood in the context of this problem of diverging perceptions and their consequences, crucially misunderstandings.
Sources of Misunderstanding
These peoples have lived through various situations, events and conflicts. But although these concern the same realities, each people perceives them differently and passes down its own version of history. Examples are easy to find:
Il reste 87 % de l'article à lire
