Yet, at least in the calm, superficially courteous world of Western academia, debating the precise text of the Koran is increasingly common as at a conference hosted by the School of Oriental and African Studies (SOAS), part of the University of London, in November.

ECONOMIST: Muslims and the Koran

Mr Melikian's suggestions of foul play were rejected by everyone close to the exhibition, as well as by scholars in the field, such as Professor Roderick Whitfield of London University's School of Oriental and African Studies.

ECONOMIST: Chinese archaeology

Christopher Davis, an anthropologist at the University of London's School of Oriental and African Studies (SOAS), said traditional healers can play a role as mental health providers.

CNN: Seeking comfort from faith healers in India

He graduated in law at the University of Ghana in 1967 before pursuing his legal studies at the School of Oriental and African Studies in London.

BBC: Profile: Ghana President John Atta Mills

Chance is British and attended the University of London where he earned a BA in Archaeology and Art from the School of Oriental and African Studies.

CNN: CNN Profiles - Matthew Chance - Senior International Correspondent