I was just reading a book about orientalism, and I thought about this question: How did the orientalism (Said's) affect how the West views the Middle East today?
I would be happy if you gave me your sources, so I could read them :)
As today's views of the ME are current, they're really beyond the scope of this sub.
However, if you're interested in reading, get Said's Covering Islam, which you'll find fascinating, and which will help address your question.