Conservative Islam

A Cultural Anthropology

By (author) Erich Kolig

Publication date:

05 April 2012

Length of book:

410 pages

Publisher

Lexington Books

ISBN-13: 9780739174241

Conservative Islam: A Cultural Anthropology by Erich Kolig analyzes the salient characteristics of Islam and contemporary Muslim society from the perspective of traditional cultural anthropology. Gender issues, the headscarf and veiling, alcohol and pork prohibition, the taboo on satirizing religious contents, violence and jihad, attitudes toward rationalism and modernity, and other important issues that emanate from Islamic doctrine are discursively highlighted as to their origins, symbolic meanings, and importance in the modern world. By highlighting socio-cultural configurations, the universals they represent, the circumstances of their creation, and their semiotic meaning, Kolig helps the reader gain understanding of Islam in the modern world.

Acknowledgments
Introduction
Chapter 1: Unity in Plurality
Chapter 2: Islamic Law
Chapter 3: Islamic Commensality
Chapter 4: Vexing Questions About Gender Relations and Women
Chapter 5: Sartorial Conundrums
Chapter 6: The Intellectual Ingredient of Freedom and Levity
Chapter 7: Islamic Politics and Leadership
Chapter 8: Sacred Violence, Martyrs, and Secret Societies
Epilogue
About the Author
Index

Kolig’s anthropological approach brings valuable nuance to understanding competing notions of the 'essence of Islam' and 'Muslim diversity.' The book deals with Islam in an accessible and stimulating way through the treatment of a series of topical and fascinating subjects. The end result is a work that provides broad coverage combined with perceptive insights from other cultural settings.