While the West has sent an unmanned spacecraft to planet Mars, the Muslim elites and their communities are still embroiled in the debate over whether Islam is compatible with modernity and development.

The Muslim world is indeed an interesting study in contrast and contradiction. It presents both an image of radicalism and a message of peace.

Western civilisation has undergone a few important periods. A period that saw the end of religious hegemony, which resulted in the separation of the church and state. It also went through a renaissance period and is now into the information age, whereas Muslims are still stuck in eighth century interpretation of Islamic ideology.

Why has the Muslim world hit a plateau? There are a few reasons. First of all, their orthodoxy tends to champion fate and destiny over reason. This mode of thinking discourages research development. Secondly, science and technical subjects are considered secular, so they don't give priority to them.

Have you seen a scientific programme featured and produced by the Muslim scientific community on discovery channel? I haven't. Also, how many Muslim scientists have received the Nobel prize? Very few.

Thirdly, as the struggle of defining Islam continues, Muslims are consumed in debating the right brand of the religion.

What should Muslims do to stay competitive and catch up to the forefront of scientific innovation. Very simple, destiny is in their hands, they should stop blaming others for their failure, address their weaknesses and embark on a paradigm shift.

The other important point is, they must realise that scientific knowledge and religious belief are not mutually exclusive. In simple terms, one can be religious and knowledgeable in the sciences at the same time.