Columbia University Press Muslim Identities: An Introduction to Islam

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. Review Muslim Identities is a welcome addition to the list of introductory books on Islamic religion.--Christine D. Baker "H-Mideast-Medieval " [A] truly extraordinary book.... the very best introduction currently available in English for non-Muslims seeking a sound approach to Islam.--Murad Wilfried Hofmann "Journal of Islamic Studies " An excellent corrective to many other introductions.... Hughes's text has much to recommend it for introductory classes on Islam at both the undergraduate and graduate levels. And it is certain to lead to much productive conversation and debate among scholars of Islamic Studies about the future of the field itself.--Khurram Hussain "Religion " About the Author Aaron W. Hughes holds the Philip S. Bernstein Chair in the Department of Religion and Classics at the University of Rochester. He is the author of Situating Islam: The Past and Future of an Academic Discipline and Theorizing Islam: Disciplinary Deconstruction and Reconstruction.