Holy Wars (RLE Politics of Islam) - The Rise of Islamic Fundamentalism (Hardcover)

To some, Islamic Fundamentalism means the restoration of a true religion. To others, it is a politics that stands apart from capitalism and socialism. To many Westerners, it has come to constitute a threat to the established economic order. There can be no disputing the phenomenal importance of Islamic Fundamentalism today. In this book Dilip Hiro furnishes us with a non-partisan narrative that takes account of both the socio-cultural values expressed in Fundamentalism, and its political consequences. His starting point is that fundamentalist forces have been active in Islam since the death of the Prophet Muhammad. He presents the two major sects, Sunnis and Shias, in this light. Conservative Saudi Arabia and revolutionary Iran are currently rival versions of what Islam has always sought to achieve: a social totality governed by the Law of God. Clearly and concisely, Hiro provides the background for an understanding of what is happening today not just in the Gulf region but also in Afghanistan, Libya, Egypt, Syria, and other Middle Eastern countries. Holy Wars is 'a short and highly readable book, that bridges the gap between academic works and daily newspaper reports.' 'Hiro has written a book that is essential reading, for it is both a beginner's guide and a highly intelligent wrap-up for the specialist.' - Independent First published in 1989.