Islam in a Globalizing World

Rating:
Summary: A highly recommended contribution to Islamic Studies
Review: Islam In A Globalizing World by Thomas W. Simons, Jr. (Consulting Professor, Center for International Security and Cooperation, Stanford University) is offers groundbreaking insights into the contemporary crises and historical roots of Islam in an contemporary era of globalization. Strenuously arguing that present-day Islamic terrorists can and will be increasingly marginalized as Islam progresses toward modernity, and providing an overview of the diverse changes which emerged during the eras comprising the first thousand years of Islam (when Islam itself was a force for globalization), down to the modern day, when revolutions of "blood and iron" placed other powers at the forefront of the globalization trend, Islam In A Globalizing World is an exceptional work of insight and a highly recommended contribution to Islamic Studies.

Rating:
Summary: Short, powerful, interesting and IMPORTANT book.
Review: This is a short, powerful, interesting and IMPORTANT book. The text is only 69 pages and says more, more clearly than the likes of Lewis's latest books. The notes and annotated bibliography are also well worthwhile. Former Ambassador to Pakistan and now a Professor, Simmons has a modern, US viewpoint but understands that social, economic, and political analysis explains more than blaming everything on "Islam". There is some useful information and a thoughtful argument about recent history and what is now going on. One need not agree entirely to learn, to think, to better understand. Everyone interested in world affairs today would do well to invest in this book. However short it has great value; a book should not be judged by its cover -- or its length. Some may also find the comparisons, like that of Russia in the 1870s to Islam in the 1970's provide perspective.

Those who know the Muslim world well might have liked a little more on non-Fundamentalist discourse or reminders about the glory days; others might be surprised how much is explained without much discussion of the (important) Arab-Israeli conflict.

Thoughtful and refreshing reading.