The university experience, a way to meet the other: a lebanese case

Abstract

The objective of this presentation is to show, based on a case study, the role universities can play in creating an adequate atmosphere for intercultural dialogue in a pluralistic human environment such as Lebanon. Having in mind the multi-confessional adherence of Lebanons population, our aim is to show that universities face serious problems in trying to introduce a culture of tolerance and conviviality. However, these difficulties may be overcome if the adopted curriculum is chosen to enhance knowledge of the "other", and if the espoused university life is practiced in such a way as to help in establishing common values leading to a better national understanding.