Islam and Capitalism in the Making of Modern Bahrain

Islam and Capitalism in the Making of Modern Bahrain explores the transformation of Bahrain from a regional trading port to a global center of Islamic finance, focusing on the changes and tensions that transformation brought to Bahrain's political, legal, economic, religious, and social structures. It also examines the rising force of youth populism driven by poverty and unemployment and Bahrain's skillful reconciliation of the demands of Islamic faith with the requirements of modern financial capitalism.

Format: Hardback
Length: 576 pages
Publication date: 25 May 2023
Publisher: Oxford University Press

In recent decades, Bahrain has undergone a remarkable transformation that has propelled its global aspirations while maintaining a degree of rule of law and cosmopolitanism. The book, Islam and Capitalism in the Making of Modern Bahrain, delves into the intricate process of Bahrain's transformation from a regional trading port and an important oil producer to a financial hub for the Gulf and a global center of Islamic finance. It explores the profound changes and tensions that this transformation has brought to Bahrain's political, legal, economic, religious, and social structures.

Rajeswary Brown, in this book, examines the rising force of youth populism driven by the persistence of poverty and unemployment, particularly among rural Shiite communities and unemployed middle-class youth. She also explores Bahrain's remarkable ability to reconcile the demands of Islamic faith, expressed in the Sharia, with the requirements of modern financial capitalism. Bahrain's experience is compared to the modern history of much of the rest of the Middle East, particularly with respect to the position of Islamic charities, notably in Syria, which are thoroughly explored in the book.

The transformation of Bahrain has been driven by various factors, including its strategic location, rich oil resources, and the influence of Western powers. However, it has also faced challenges such as political instability, social unrest, and tensions between different religious and ethnic groups. The book sheds light on these complexities and provides a comprehensive analysis of Bahrain's journey toward modernity and globalization.

One of the key themes of the book is the role of youth in shaping Bahrain's future. Brown highlights the growing frustration and disillusionment among young people, who face high unemployment rates and limited opportunities for social advancement. The rise of youth populism, driven by the desire for change and a sense of exclusion, has been a significant factor in shaping Bahrain's political landscape.

At the same time, Bahrain has demonstrated a commitment to maintaining its Islamic identity and values. The country has established a Sharia-based legal system and has promoted the development of Islamic finance and education. However, this has also led to tensions and conflicts between different religious and ethnic groups, particularly between Sunnis and Shiites.

The book explores these tensions and conflicts in depth, examining the role of religion, politics, and economic development in shaping Bahrain's social and political landscape. It also examines the impact of foreign powers, such as the United States and Saudi Arabia, on Bahrain's foreign policy and regional stability.

Overall, Islam and Capitalism in the Making of Modern Bahrain is a valuable contribution to the study of Bahrain's history, culture, and politics. It provides a comprehensive analysis of the transformation that has taken place and the challenges that Bahrain faces in the future. The book sheds light on the complex interplay between Islam, capitalism, and social change and offers insights into the potential for peaceful coexistence and development in a diverse and complex region.

Weight: 1024g
Dimension: 240 x 164 x 39 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780192874672