This book captures the essence of what was an important starting point for the year for Dialogue among Civilizations (2001). Leaders from all continents assembled in September 2000 to share their views on the eve of the historic U.N. Millennium Summit. The political perspectives advanced then were complemented by contributions from personalities drawn from literature, the media, academia, diplomacy and international organizations. 'Dialogue among civilizations' is an essential stage in the founding of a form of human development both sustainable and equitable, humanizing globalization and laying the basis of an enduring peace.