This course reviews and applies 'Abdu'l-Baha’s prescriptions for Iranian ‘modernization’ and the advance of civilization in general, to topics of current interest. Through this relatively brief classic of 1875, we will explore: humanity’s moral and spiritual qualities (virtues), the role of religion in social progress and reform, universal education, the development of arts and sciences, appropriate expansion of wealth (or prosperity), consultative governance and justice, the historical interdependence between the West and the Middle East, as well as the necessity of world peace and ever-advancing global civilization. All of these teachings, though directed as written to late nineteenth century, have astoundingly universal application and will reward any sincere investigator.

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