Understanding Iran's "Family Values" Fundamentalism - Rick Steves March 5, 2009

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Complete video at: http://fora.tv/2009/01/26/Rick_Steves_A_Perspective_on_Iran

Travel writer Rick Steves claims the perceived notion of anti-American sentiment in Iran is derived from conservative Iranians' attempt to protect their families from Western encroachment. Steves finds says it's ironic that "fear and love" seem to motivate both conservative, small town Iranians and Americans alike.

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Travel guru Rick Steves sheds light on Iran, calling it the most misunderstood country he has ever visited. He discusses his travels through the country and his new special airing on PBS.

From Friday prayer in a leading mosque to anti-American murals, Steves presents his message and experiences to help us better understand a nation that continues to be shrouded in mystery and clouded by myths and mistruths.

Rick Steves grew up in Edmonds, Washington and studied at the University of Washington where he received degrees in Business Administration and European History. But his real education came in Europe - since 1973 he's spent 120 days a year in Europe. Spending one third of his adult life living out of a suitcase in Europe has shaped his thinking. Today he employs 80 people at his Europe Through the Back Door headquarters in Edmonds where he produces 30 guidebooks on European travel, the most popular travel series in America on public television, a weekly hour-long national public radio show, and a weekly column syndicated by the Chicago Tribune. Rick and his wife Anne have traveled each of the last 18 years with their two kids, Andy and Jackie.