Islam and Modernity

Course Overview

This course aims to help Muslims to understand Islam in relation to a number of contemporary issues posed by the modern world. The Hadith of Jibril is studied in order to properly define Islam. The philosophical and historical roots of Modernity are explored. The early interactions between Islam and Modernity are discussed with an emphasis on Orientalism. Islamophobia a and the media’s role in representing Islam is also discussed. Al Wala’ Wal Bara’, or Loyalty and Disavowment, is discussed in the context of social as well as political interactions. Numerous philosophies such as Atheism, Scientism, Materialism, and New Atheism are studied along with their arguments and their implications. Theological issues such as the Problem of Evil, religious violence, and hudud, are discussed in light of contemporary concerns. Social issues such as gender, sexuality, feminism, and polygamy are also examined.

Learning Objectives:

Upon completion of this course, students will:

– Understand Hadith Jibril and how it frames Islam
– Learn the history of Modernity and its relation to Orientalism and Islamophobia
– Identify the role of Mass Media in shaping narratives as well as Islamophobia
– Recognize the true meaning of Al Wala’ Wal Bara’ as explained in the Quran
– Understand the various philosophies underlying Modernity, their context, and arguments
– Identify political misunderstandings regarding Islam and why they exist
– Learn about popular social movements in Modernity and their relation to Islam