Enroll Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/muslim-world
In a world increasingly interconnected, understanding the diverse political landscapes and societal motivations across different regions is paramount. Coursera’s ‘Constitutional Struggles in the Muslim World’ offers a compelling and insightful journey into the heart of contemporary challenges faced by many nations with significant Muslim populations. This course is an invaluable resource for anyone seeking to comprehend the complexities behind recent waves of unrest, the motivations of youth, the positions of Islamists, the roots of Islamic law’s influence, the fate of secularism, and the very concept of an Islamic state.
The course syllabus is meticulously structured, taking learners on a geographical and thematic tour. It begins with a crucial overview, setting the stage by examining the current state of affairs in the region, the role of religion, and the multifaceted responses to modernity. The instructor recommends an article, ‘Contested Universalities of International Law. Islam’s Struggle with Modernity,’ which serves as a foundational text for grasping the course’s core arguments.
From the legacy of the Ottoman Empire and modern Turkey’s secularist path, the course delves into Egypt and the Maghreb, the birthplace of the Arab Spring, exploring the ‘Religious Modernism/Reform’ approach. We then travel to Saudi Arabia and the Gulf states, analyzing the impact of ‘rentier economies’ and the persistence of ‘Traditionalism.’ Iran, a focal point for ‘Islamist governance,’ is examined through the lens of whether its promises have been sustainable or led to popular disillusionment.
The syllabus continues with a look at the Levant (Jordan, Syria, Lebanon, and Iraq), grappling with topical issues like the aftermath of invasions and internal revolts. Afghanistan, Pakistan, and Bangladesh are explored, with a particular emphasis on the Afghan conflict. The course then shifts to the archipelagic nations of Malaysia and Indonesia, highlighting their unique historical, ethnic, and linguistic tapestries.
Sub-Saharan Africa is addressed, focusing on the challenges within Muslim-majority societies, the enduring impact of colonialism, and institutional weaknesses. Finally, the course concludes by tying together recurring themes, identifying commonalities and differences across the regions, and offering a comprehensive outlook on the challenges facing the Muslim world today.
Overall, ‘Constitutional Struggles in the Muslim World’ is a highly recommended course. It provides a nuanced, historically informed, and geographically diverse perspective that is essential for anyone looking to gain a deeper understanding of contemporary global politics. The depth of coverage and the critical analysis offered make this an exceptionally rewarding learning experience.
Enroll Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/muslim-world