Islam and Democracy: Fear of the Modern World by Fatema Mernissi. Translated by Mary Jo Lakeland -Paperback

In Islam and Democracy: Fear of the Modern World, Fatema Mernissi, a prominent Islamic sociologist, examines the complex relationship between Islam and democracy. She tackles the pressing question of whether Islam can coexist with democratic principles and explores whether fundamentalism will dominate the Middle East or if democratic reforms are attainable. Mernissi, a vocal critic of radical interpretations of Islam, argues that progressive Muslims—those who advocate for democracy, gender equality, and resistance to extremism—must engage with the same religious texts as fundamentalists, but reinterpret them in ways that promote peace and social justice rather than violence and oppression.

The book, originally published in 1992 and now updated with a new introduction reflecting on the aftermath of the September 11 attacks, provides a critical look at the social and political dynamics of the Muslim world. It challenges the notion that Islam inherently supports authoritarianism or violence, while also addressing the difficulties of pushing for democratic change within the framework of traditional Islamic thought.

Mernissi delves into the contradictions within Islamic societies, offering insight into the political, social, and religious forces at play. She highlights the importance of understanding the context behind the actions of radical groups and offers a nuanced perspective on the possibilities for democracy and human rights in the Islamic world. The book remains a crucial resource for anyone interested in the politics and future of the Middle East, offering both historical context and contemporary relevance. It calls for a reimagining of Islam as a force for democracy and equality, making it as timely and essential today as it was when first published.

 

Product details

• Publisher ‏ : ‎ Basic Books; Reissue edition (April 1, 2002)
• Language ‏ : ‎ English
• Paperback ‏ : ‎ 197 pages
• ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 0738207454
• ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-0738207452
• Item Weight ‏ : ‎ 11.2 ounces
• Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 6 x 0.56 x 9 inches
• Condition: Used-Very Good

The copy has a remainder mark at the bottom edge, otherwise in very good condition. The pages are clean and shiny. The cover is intact and the binding is sound.

Church & State Religious Studies, History of Religion & Politics, Middle Eastern Politics, Islam, Fundamentalism, Modernism, Democracy and Human Rights,