For many years Malise Ruthven has been at the forefront of discerning commentary on the Islamic world and its relations with the predominantly secularised and Christian societies of the West. Well known for his bold interventions on such issues as the Rushdie affair and publication of "The Satanic Verses"; the many unresolved questions relating to the Lockerbie bombing; and the globe-changing terrorist attack of 9/11, Ruthven's perceptive writings, particularly those that have appeared in the "New York Review of Books", reliably re-frame difficult issues and problems so that his readers are prompted to look at the challenges afresh. Ruthven is here at his most compelling: he offers astute and topical insights across the whole spectrum of Middle East and Islamic studies. Whether questioning the involvement of Libyan agents in the downing of Pan Am Flight 103; exploring the contested place of women in Islam; or discussing the disputed term 'Islamofascism' (his own), the author's probing, searchlight intelligence aims always to get at the truth of things, regardless of attendant controversy. Representing the 'best of Ruthven', these lucid essays will be widely appreciated by students, specialists and general readers. They transform our understandings of contemporary society.

For many years Malise Ruthven has been at the forefront of discerning commentary on the Islamic world and its relations with the predominantly secularised and Christian societies of the West. The author's probing, searchlight intelligence aims always to get at the truth of things, regardless of attendant controversy.

About the Author
Malise Ruthven, described by the Guardian as "one of today's most perceptive observers and historians of religion", is internationally recognized for his work on Muslim thought and theology, fundamentalism, the social impact of religion and migration and the nexus between contemporary politics and belief. His many books include The Divine Supermarket: Travels in Search of the Soul of America (Tauris Parke Paperbacks, forthcoming) and Mormonism: An Introduction (I.B.Tauris, forthcoming).

Reviews
'Malise Ruthven is the leading British authority on modern Islam. His books are essential for understanding what is going on in the Middle East today, and Encounters with Islam is an ideal entree to his thinking on some vital issues.' - Robert Irwin.



Book Information
ISBN 9781780760247
Author Malise Ruthven
Format Paperback
Page Count 288
Imprint I.B. Tauris
Publisher Bloomsbury Publishing PLC
Weight(grams) 367g