Muslim Identity and Social Change in Sub-Saharan Africa - Softcover

Softcover

ISBN 10: 025331271X ISBN 13: 9780253312716

Publisher: Indiana Univ Pr, 1994

Synopsis

This collection of 1991 conference papers examines the often complex evolution of Islam in a variety of African countries in recent decades, emphasizing the interaction between Islamic groups as they wrestle with issues of local tradition, doctrinal reform, political patronage, and increasing Westernization. Where open forms of political activity have been suppressed, some authors argue, Islam has become a vehicle to express ideological, socioeconomic, and political rivalries. Where governments have failed to provide needed social services, Muslim groups have begun to respond to demands for education and welfare in ways largely ignored by Western development agencies.

About this title

About the Author:

LOUIS BRENNER is Reader in the History of Religion in Africa and Head of the Department of African Languages and Cultures at the School of Oriental and African Studies, University of London. He is author of West African Sufi: The Religious Heritage and Spiritual Search of Cerno Bokar Saalif Taal.

Review:

"Loimeier's impressive book presents a critical assessment of scholarship on the 1,300 years of the historical development and evolution of Muslim societies in Africa.... Highly recommended." —Choice

About this edition

• Publisher: Indiana Univ Pr
• Publication date: 1994
• ISBN 10: 025331271X
• ISBN 13: 9780253312716
• Binding: Paperback
• Number of pages: 250
• Editor: Brenner Louis