The Muslim Brotherhood: Ideology, History, Descendants

The Muslim Brotherhood is a complex organisation with diverse goals, ideologies, and influences, which is often represented in mainstream media as a theocratic organisation that preaches Quran-based violence. This book provides a more dynamic and diverse understanding of the organisation and its historical developments since its emergence in 1928.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 334 pages
Publication date: 23 June 2022
Publisher: Amsterdam University Press

The Muslim Brotherhood is often portrayed in the mainstream media as a theocratic organization that propagates Quran-based violence and seeks to gain power in the West. However, as this book demonstrates, such representations are fraught with prejudice and oversimplification. In reality, the Muslim Brotherhood is a much more dynamic and diverse organization. Its goals, ideology, and influence have never been static and have varied significantly among its descendants in both Europe and the Middle East.

Joas Wagemakers, in this book, provides an insightful introduction to this fascinating organization and the significant ideological and historical developments it has undergone since its emergence in 1928.

The Muslim Brotherhood originated in Egypt in 1928 as a social and political movement seeking to promote Islamic values and principles in society. It quickly gained popularity among the educated and urban middle class, particularly in Egypt and Syria.

Over the years, the Muslim Brotherhood has undergone several ideological and organizational changes. It has evolved from a primarily religious and social movement to a more political and activist organization. It has also faced challenges and setbacks, including periods of persecution and internal divisions.

One of the key ideological developments of the Muslim Brotherhood has been its emphasis on the importance of social justice and equality. The organization has advocated for the rights of marginalized groups, such as women, minorities, and the poor, and has worked to promote social reform and economic development.

The Muslim Brotherhood has also played a significant role in shaping the political landscape of the Middle East and North Africa. It has supported and influenced various political movements and parties, including the Egyptian Revolution of 2011, which led to the overthrow of President Hosni Mubarak.

However, the Muslim Brotherhood has also faced criticism and opposition from many quarters. Some critics argue that the organization promotes extremism and violence, while others accuse it of seeking to undermine democratic institutions and consolidate power in the hands of a small elite.

Despite these challenges, the Muslim Brotherhood continues to play a significant role in the political and social life of the Middle East and North Africa. Its influence and popularity may vary from country to country, but its commitment to social justice and equality remains a central tenet of its ideology.

In conclusion, the Muslim Brotherhood is a complex and multifaceted organization that has undergone significant ideological and historical developments since its emergence in 1928. While it has faced criticism and opposition, its commitment to social justice and equality remains a central tenet of its ideology. The Muslim Brotherhood continues to play a significant role in the political and social life of the Middle East and North Africa, and its influence and popularity may continue to evolve in the years to come.

Weight: 518g
Dimension: 156 x 233 x 24 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9789463727686