The recent election of reform candidates to Iran's parliament dealt a blow to the nation's strict Islamic government. Despite Iran's generally free elections, many Westerners say that democracy is inherently impossible in countries run by Islamic fundamentalists. Since the ruling clerics believe God inspires their policies, it is argued, there is little room for the kind of public debate that is vital to a democracy. In addition, fundamentalist states such as Iran, Sudan and Afghanistan are seen as supportive of terrorism and generally hostile to the West. But other experts on the Middle East say the threat posed by fundamentalist states has been exaggerated, largely by the media. They also contend that Iran's elections are proof that Islamic fundamentalism and democracy can coexist.

David Masci specializes in social policy, religion and foreign affairs. Before joining CQ Researcher as a staff writer in 1996, he was a reporter at CQ's Daily Monitor and CQ Weekly. He holds a BA in medieval history from Syracuse University and a law degree from The George Washington University.