The dreadful events of 11 September have brought Islam to the forefront of world politics. This book provides the analysis that is an introduction to Islamic politics for those coming to the subject for the first time.

With further reading suggestions, and a glossary, Islam and Politics in the Contemporary World is an indispensable introduction to the subject and will prove invaluable as a textbook for students of politics and religion.

Preface.Introduction.1. Islam and Politics Defined.2. Islam and the State.3. Politics of Protest.4. The Democracy Debate: Intractable Paths?.5. Bringing Down the Barricade: The Gender Debate.6. Gun Barell Politics: Islam and Political Violence.7. The Making of Mutual Antagonism: Islam and the West.Conclusion: Islam and Politics A Twenty-First Century Challenge.Glossary.Bibliograph.Index