The Politics of Muslim Identities in Asia

This book explores the intersection of Islam and politics in contemporary Southeast Asia, South Asia, and China, offering a comparative view of Asia's diverse Muslim identities. It examines the complexity of identity politics and the instrumentalization of religious difference that create social divides. The book includes 9 country-based case studies and features contributions from experts in political science, anthropology, Islamic studies, sociology. It approaches religious identity with an emphasis on agency and contestation, analyzing how Muslims constitute themselves as modern subjects and articulate their religious identity vis-a-vis the state and society in which they live.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 208 pages
Publication date: 16 August 2023
Publisher: Edinburgh University Press

Exploring the intricate intersection between Islam and politics in contemporary Southeast Asia, South Asia, and China, this comprehensive book offers a comparative perspective on the diverse Muslim identities across Asia. It delves into the complex realm of identity politics, examining how religious difference is often instrumentalized to create social divisions. Situating the contemporary contestations of identity and belonging amidst new waves of Islamic revivalism, ethnic nationalism, and political repression, the book provides a rich understanding of the multifaceted dynamics shaping these regions.

Featuring contributions from esteemed experts in political science, anthropology, Islamic studies, and sociology, this book offers a multi-faceted exploration of religious identity in Asia. It provides a historical backdrop, examining how Muslim identities have evolved over time and the contingent politics that have influenced their formation. Through 9 country-based case studies, the book delves into the ways in which Muslims articulate their religious identity in relation to the state and society in which they reside, analyzing how their position relates to specific social and political contexts.

The contributors survey the ways in which religious affiliation sparks a politics of difference in contexts where Islamic practices, beliefs, and aspirations are contested, as well as where Muslims are framed as the "Other." They examine the diverse strategies employed by Muslims to assert their religious rights, navigate the complexities of identity politics, and engage with the broader social and political landscape.

This book is a valuable resource for scholars, researchers, and policymakers interested in understanding the complex dynamics of Islam and politics in Asia. It sheds light on the diverse Muslim identities, the challenges they face, and the strategies they employ to navigate the complex terrain of identity politics and religious difference. By offering a comparative perspective, the book contributes to our understanding of the region's social, political, and cultural landscape, and provides insights into the ongoing struggles for identity and belonging in the context of globalizing forces.

Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781474466844