MANY FACES OF POLITICAL ISLAM (PB), THE

Analysts and pundits from across the political spectrum describe Islamic fundamentalism as one of the greatest threats to modern democracy. Yet very few scholars have venture an accurate definition of political Islam. The many faces of political Islam thoroughly analyses the many facets of this political ideology and shows its impact on global relations. In the words of one reviewer, remarkable in scope, the books major contribution is its successful marriage of a compelling, theoretically sound General argument with a wide array of specific cases synthesizing the best work by specialists. Rather than offering a string of discrete, disconnected summaries of islamist activity in various far-flung places, the book makes an exceptionally well-integrated argument about the National origins of Islamism. Its clever comparisons are designed to advance the larger claim while shedding light on the particular cases. although aimed at students and non-specialist readers, this books argument is sophisticated and convincing, supported with empirical detail and presented in clear prose. It debunks pernicious myths, makes a clear case, and dispels a number of widely held misconceptions about Islam.