Product Description

The Islamic Middle East is a rare, thought-provoking account of the origins, nature, and evolution of Islam that provides a historical perspective vital to understanding the contemporary Middle East.

Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #1252581 in Books
• Published on: 2002-10-18
• Original language: English
• Number of items: 1
• Binding: Paperback
• 352 pages

Review
"Charles Lindholm has provided an exceptional service to both the scholarly community and the public in his masterful work, The Islamic Middle East. Rather than treating Middle Eastern history and institutions as exotic narrative or dry doctrine, he places the development of Islamic civilization firmly in its cultural context. He brings it to life, making it both comprehensible and clear to Western readers." William Beeman, Brown University

"This is a brilliant book, combining historical knowledge and anthropological theory in an elegant and high-powered manner. This is the best introduction to the classical heartland of Islam available, and it will continue to attract both readers and attention." John Hall, McGill University

"[An] eloquent and clearly written book." The Muslim World Book Review

Review
"Lindholm's contribution is amplified by his clarity of style and the many fine two-tone illustrations that accompany the text." Journal of Near Eastern Studies

From the Back Cover
Recent world events have produced an outpouring of books on the Middle East. There are, however, few syntheses available by anthropologists---the very individuals who have long been immersed in the study of this region and its peoples. In The Islamic Middle East: Tradition and Change, noted anthropologist Charles Lindholm offers readers a rare, thought-provoking account of the origins, nature, and evolution of Islam and provides a historical perspective vital to understanding the contemporary Middle East.

Lindholm argues that much of the West, and the United States in particular, shares fundamental values with the Middle East – values that have fueled dispute but could also provide a basis for dialogue. He boldly seeks to reconcile widely touted negative attitudes toward blacks, slaves, and women-which have been reified in many Middle Eastern cultures-with Islamic belief in the equality of all humans. Arguing that the Middle East is characterized by a pervasive ethic of equality and individualism, much like the United States, this book considers the painful paradox of egalitarian peoples living under despotic regimes as well as the present prospects for resistance to authority and emancipation from tyranny. Written with verve and wit, The Islamic Middle East provides a rare opportunity for understanding.