The Crescent and the Couch: Cross-currents Between Islam and Psychoanalysis

The false equation of Muslim with Arab has created stereotypes and ambiguities. The Crescent and the Couch brings together a distinguished panel of Muslim and non-Muslim contributors to advance knowledge about Islam and create the possibility of a dialogue between Islam and psychoanalysis. It highlights the world-changing contributions of prominent Muslim figures and elucidates the encounter of Islam with Christianity, Judaism, and Hinduism. It also addresses clinical issues that arise in the treatment of Muslim patients and the technical work of Muslim psychoanalysts.

Format: Hardback
Length: 434 pages
Publication date: 11 December 2021
Publisher: Jason Aronson Inc. Publishers

The face of Islam that the West encounters today is characterized by a blend of orthodoxy, fundamentalism, the so-called "new anti-Semitism," and political terrorism. This perception is largely shaped by images of inter-ethnic bloodshed in Iraq, bellicose Iranian posturing, Al-Qaeda training camps, and zealot suicide bombers. While some aspects of this portrayal may hold true, it is also influenced by the Western media's portrayal of Islam, driven by a hunger that has intensified since the collapse of the Soviet Union. The false equation of "Muslim" with "Arab" has further perpetuated stereotypes and ambiguities, leading to a limited understanding of the diverse and complex nature of Islam.

It is important to recognize that the majority of Muslims in the world are not Arab, and many Arabs are not Muslims. The people, culture, traditions, and religious practices of Islam are incredibly diverse and complex. From the austere Wahabbi rigidity to the lyrical Sufi mysticism, Islam encompasses a wide range of belief systems and cultural expressions. Its rich tapestry includes the suppression of women in some regions, as well as breathtakingly beautiful aspects such as calligraphy, architecture, rug weaving, and romantic poetry.

In an effort to advance knowledge about Islam and foster a dialogue between Islam and psychoanalysis, The Crescent and the Couch brings together a distinguished panel of Muslim and non-Muslim contributors from various fields, including history, religion, anthropology, politics, and psychoanalysis. Through their insights, these authors highlight the world-changing contributions of prominent Muslim figures and explore the encounter of Islam with Christianity, Judaism, and Hinduism. They also address clinical issues that arise in the treatment of Muslim patients and the technical work of Muslim psychoanalysts.

The book serves as a valuable resource for those seeking to understand Islam better and promote interfaith understanding. It challenges stereotypes and misconceptions and provides a deeper appreciation for the rich diversity and complexity of Islamic culture and belief systems. By promoting dialogue and understanding, The Crescent and the Couch contributes to a more inclusive and peaceful global community.

Weight: 826g
Dimension: 158 x 230 x 35 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780765705747