It was hoped that in the post colonial era the relationship between the Muslim world and the powerful west would improve and mutual respect and care for each other's concerns would become the guiding principles of western policy towards the Muslim world. However, the post colonial experience of nearly half a century leaves alot more to be desired. The pain, suffering and humiliation suffered by the Muslim peoples during the last half a century, and the helplessness of the Muslim governments and leaders has created a sense of disappointment and hopelessness amongst the Muslim masses. This situation has been exploited by extremists in both camps endangering world peace in the first decade of the 21st century.