The Impossible State: Islam, Politics, and Modernity's Moral Predicament

Name: The Impossible State: Islam, Politics, and Modernity's Moral Predicament
Price: 32.00 USD
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Book Synopsis: Wael B. Hallaq boldly argues that the “Islamic state,” judged by any standard definition of what the modern state represents, is both impossible and inherently self-contradictory. Comparing the legal, political, moral, and constitutional histories of premodern Islam and Euro-America, he finds the adoption and practice of the modern state to be highly problematic for modern Muslims. He also critiques more expansively modernity’s moral predicament, which renders impossible any project resting solely on ethical foundations. The modern state not only suffers from serious legal, political, and constitutional issues, Hallaq argues, but also, by its very nature, fashions a subject inconsistent with what it means to be, or to live as, a Muslim. By Islamic standards, the state’s technologies of the self are severely lacking in moral substance, and today’s Islamic state, as Hallaq shows, has done little to advance an acceptable form of genuine Shari’a governance. The Islamists’ constitutional battles in Egypt and Pakistan, the Islamic legal and political failures of the Iranian Revolution, and similar disappointments underscore this fact. Nevertheless, the state remains the favored template of the Islamists and the ulama (Muslim clergymen). Providing Muslims with a path toward realizing the good life, Hallaq turns to the rich moral resources of Islamic history. Along the way, he proves political and other “crises of Islam” are not unique to the Islamic world nor to the Muslim religion. These crises are integral to the modern condition of both East and West, and by acknowledging these parallels, Muslims can engage more productively with their Western counterparts.

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Discover the thought-provoking and groundbreaking book, "The Impossible State: Islam, Politics, and Modernity's Moral Predicament". Written by Wael B. Hallaq, this book challenges conventional notions of the "Islamic state" and presents a compelling argument against its viability. With a meticulous comparison between premodern Islam and Euro-America, Hallaq sheds light on the inherent contradictions and challenges faced by modern Muslims in adopting the modern state.

Through a critical analysis of the legal, political, moral, and constitutional histories, Hallaq exposes the problematic nature of the modern state for Muslims. He delves deeper into the moral predicament posed by modernity itself, highlighting the impossibility of any project solely based on ethical foundations. The modern state not only grapples with legal and political issues but fundamentally fails to align with the principles and values of Islam.

Hallaq further examines the shortcomings of today's Islamic states and their failure to establish genuine Sharia governance. Drawing from the rich moral resources of Islamic history, he provides Muslims with a path towards realizing the true essence of a good life. By acknowledging the parallels between the Islamic world and the Western society, Hallaq bridges the gap and encourages productive engagement between Muslims and their Western counterparts.

Don't miss out on this thought-provoking exploration of Islam, politics, and modernity's moral predicament. Gain a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by Muslims in today's world and uncover the historical insights that shape our perception of the modern state. Unlock a wealth of knowledge that will broaden your perspective and empower your intellectual journey.

Ready to delve into "The Impossible State: Islam, Politics, and Modernity's Moral Predicament"? Click here to get your hands on this groundbreaking book now!

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