British Islam and English Law: A Classical Pluralist Perspective

British Islam and English Law explores the relationship between English law and Islam, presenting a novel argument about the nature and place of groups in society. It resurrects the long-buried theory of classical pluralism to address and resolve conflicts between individual and community, religion and state, nation and culture.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 320 pages
Publication date: 27 January 2022
Publisher: Cambridge University Press

British Islam and English Law presents a groundbreaking exploration of the complex relationship between Islam and the legal system in England. This book offers a novel argument regarding the nature and significance of groups within society, challenging traditional perspectives on the role of religion in the legal sphere. The encounter with Islam has sparked a philosophical rivalry between two theoretical models, liberal individualism and multiculturalism, vying for dominance in shaping the law governing organized religion. This philosophical conflict has given rise to a series of seemingly intractable conflicts, spanning from individual rights versus community interests, religious freedoms versus state regulations, and national identities versus cultural diversity. In response to these tensions, this book resurrects the long-forgotten theory of classical pluralism to provide a comprehensive framework for addressing and resolving these conflicts. By applying this theory to five understudied institutions that play a vital role in shaping British Islam, including banks, charities, schools, elections, and clans, the book offers a detailed blueprint for reforming these institutions to optimize the relationship between law and religion. This book is unflinching in its approach, challenging conventional wisdom and employing innovative methods such as nudge theory and applied history to provide insightful answers to pressing questions about British Islam. Through its comprehensive analysis and thoughtful recommendations, British Islam and English Law offers a valuable contribution to the ongoing debate about the role of religion in modern society and the challenges faced by governments in navigating the delicate balance between religious freedom and social cohesion.

Weight: 568g
Dimension: 169 x 244 x 22 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781108713603
Edition number: New ed