Rather than focus solely on theological concerns; this well-rounded introduction takes an expansive view of Islamic ideology; culture; and tradition; sourcing a range of historical; sociological; and literary perspectives. Neither overly critical nor apologetic; this book reflects the rich diversity of Muslim identities across the centuries and counters the unflattering; superficial portrayals of Islam that are shaping public discourse today.Aaron W. Hughes uniquely traces the development of Islam in relation to historical; intellectual; and cultural influences; enriching his narrative with the findings; debates; and methodologies of related disciplines; such as archaeology; history; and Near Eastern studies. Hughes's work challenges the dominance of traditional terms and concepts in religious studies; recasting religion as a set of social and cultural facts imagined; manipulated; and contested by various actors and groups over time. Making extensive use of contemporary identity theory; Hughes rethinks the teaching of Islam and religions in general and helps facilitate a more critical approach to Muslim sources. For readers seeking a non-theological; unbiased; and richly human portrait of Islam; as well as a strong grasp of Islamic study's major issues and debates; this textbook is a productive; progressive alternative to more classic surveys.
#3000069 in Books 2010-06-10Original language:EnglishPDF # 1 9.01 x .83 x 6.06l; 1.31 #File Name: 0231149336448 pages
Review
2 of 3 people found the following review helpful. Excellent study of globalization and religionBy sweet revengeWinged Faith is a significant contribution to the understanding of globalization; transnationalism; and religion. This very thorough study of the Satya Sai Baba movement examines proximity (spatial temporal) to sacred centers; religious objects materiality; secrecy control (of bodies information); sacred play work; identity; meaning-making; and much more. Extensive fieldwork provides depth and context; and informs Srinivas' skillful analysis. Of particular note is her questioning of the assumption that globalization generally moves from the West outward; which this study clearly demonstrates is not the case. Her focus on the "process-based understanding of cultural translation" and insights into the movements of people; ideas; contexts; and meanings are valuable for scholars; students; and anyone else interested in globalization; religion; anthropology; and the ways that people negotiate body; culture and meaning.
