A theory of a contemporary Islamic state: History, governance, and the individual
Abstract
This is a work of normative political philosophy that offers a broad philosophical framework for conceptualizing progressive and modern governance in a contemporary Islamic state. The model offered places primacy on traditional Islamic sources in organizing the state. However, it also heavily utilizes ancient Greek thought and contemporary western archetypes of political institutions and concepts when appropriate. The first chapter explores the development of Islamic philosophical thought. The conclusion offered in this section suggests that non-Islamic elements were salient at one point in Islam's history, specifically in regards to statecraft, and that such an integrated approach is useful today. The middle sections of this project offer ways to operationalize political leadership, laws, and formal and informal institutions within an Islamic framework. Relevant Islamic and non-Islamic sources are utilized, yet the overall framework remains within the fold of Islam. The final section looks at the individual and the elements that encapsulate the Islamic mindset. This work argues that without adequately understanding the essential elements of the Muslim worldview, it is not feasible to postulate a legitimate theory of an Islamic state.
Degree
Ph.D.
Advisors
Weinstein, Purdue University.
Subject Area
Philosophy|Islamic Studies|Political science
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