To The Best of Our Knowledge from Wisconsin Public Radio

Many Americans remember Iran for one thing: seizing the U.S. Embassy in Tehran. But the Iranian theocracy is crumbling, and changes there could reshape Islamic politics throughout the Middle East. In this hour of To the Best of Our Knowledge a look at the new Iran. Also, Edward Said (sah-EED) recalls growing up in exile.

The recent shooting of a leading reformer sent shock waves through Iran. But journalist Robin Wright, author of The Last Great Revolution, tells Jim Fleming that the power of the hard-line clerics is slipping. And she says a new revolution, as momentous as the Reformation in England, is now transforming Iran. Also, Tara Bahrampour reflects on her return to Iran after leaving the country as a child. She talks with Steve Paulon about her memoir To See and See Again.

Many people have lost hope for peace in the Middle East. Not Melodye Feldman, founder of Building Bridges for Peace in Denver. She tells Jim Fleming about an innovative summer camp that brings together Israeli, Palestinian and American girls. Also, commentator Judith Strasser reflects on a recent hike she took in the Sinai Peninsula.

Edward Said is a renowned cultural critic and a controversial champion of Palestinian rights. But for all of his public visibility, he has rarely talked about his own background, growing up in a Christian Palestinian family in Egypt and Lebanon. Steve Paulson talks with Said about his memoir, Out of Place.

Distribution dates:

• week of 03/19/2000 - hour 1