Studying Islam in the Arab World: The Rupture Between Religion and the Social Sciences

This book critically assesses the curricula of Shariah and Islamic Studies departments in Arab universities, advocating for increased interdisciplinary dialogue. It provides insight into these curricula through case studies in Lebanon, Jordan, Morocco, Kuwait, Qatar, and Malaysia, examining the aim of religious education and the relationship between the social sciences and Shariah sciences.

Format: Hardback
Length: 306 pages
Publication date: 22 December 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Addressing the significant rift between religious and social sciences in Arab universities, this comprehensive book offers a critical evaluation of the curricula of Shariah and Islamic Studies departments across the Arab World. Through a robust analysis of over 250 interviews with university students and teachers, this study represents a five-year field research endeavor that meticulously observed the curricula and teaching methodologies of colleges in the Shariah sciences. The author delves into these curricula through in-depth case studies conducted in Lebanon, Jordan, Morocco, Kuwait, and Qatar, as well as in Malaysia. By focusing on these diverse contexts, the book aims to provide valuable insights into the nature and objectives of religious education. It seeks to answer the fundamental question of whether religious education aims to produce individuals solely dedicated to religious affairs or to shape students according to a comprehensive human framework. Furthermore, the book explores the complex relationship between the social sciences and the Shariah sciences, shedding light on their respective roles and contributions to knowledge. In conclusion, the book examines three pioneering institutions that have introduced alternative curricula in teaching Shariah studies. With its wide geographic and ideological scope, this book appeals to university students, academics, and policy analysts engaged in diverse disciplines such as the philosophy of knowledge, Islamic law and education, and sociology. By fostering interdisciplinary dialogue and promoting a deeper understanding of the complex interplay between religion and society, this book contributes to the ongoing discourse on education and social transformation in the Arab world.

Weight: 780g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032564081