Meaning: The quote "But September 11 marked a big change in the sense that the public was suddenly interested, and as a professor at a public university I felt a responsibility to respond to all of the inquiries about the Islamic world" by Juan Cole, an educator, encapsulates the significant impact of the September 11 attacks on the public's perception and interest in the Islamic world, as well as the responsibility felt by educators to address the ensuing inquiries and concerns.

Juan Cole, an American academic, author, and commentator on the modern Middle East and South Asia, made this statement in the context of the aftermath of the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks in the United States. These attacks, carried out by the extremist group Al-Qaeda, had a profound and far-reaching impact on global politics, security, and public discourse about Islam and the Middle East.

In the years leading up to September 11, the Islamic world and the dynamics of the Middle East region had not received widespread attention from the general public in the West. However, the coordinated terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center and the Pentagon dramatically altered this landscape. Suddenly, there was a surge of interest and curiosity among the public regarding the Islamic world, its history, culture, and the factors that may have contributed to the rise of violent extremism.

As a professor at a public university, Juan Cole found himself at the forefront of this heightened interest and the subsequent influx of inquiries from students, media, and the public at large. In his role as an educator, he recognized the responsibility to address and respond to the inquiries about the Islamic world. This responsibility was not only driven by his expertise in the subject matter but also by the need to dispel misconceptions, challenge stereotypes, and provide nuanced perspectives in the wake of the traumatic events of September 11.

Cole's statement underscores the pivotal role of educators in times of heightened societal interest and crisis. In the aftermath of September 11, there was a pressing need for informed, balanced, and empathetic voices to help the public navigate and understand the complex issues surrounding Islam, the Middle East, and global terrorism. Educators like Cole assumed the responsibility of engaging with these inquiries, fostering critical thinking, and promoting a deeper understanding of the diverse cultures and histories within the Islamic world.

Furthermore, Cole's acknowledgment of the impact of September 11 on public interest serves as a reminder of the profound influence that major events can have on shaping public discourse and academic priorities. The attacks sparked a reevaluation of global security, foreign policy, and intercultural relations, prompting many educators to reorient their teaching and research to address the evolving needs and questions of their students and the broader community.

In conclusion, Juan Cole's quote encapsulates the significant shift in public interest and the corresponding responsibility felt by educators to engage with inquiries about the Islamic world following the September 11 attacks. It underscores the critical role of educators in providing context, understanding, and empathy in times of heightened societal concern and serves as a testament to the enduring impact of major events on public discourse and academic engagement.