The Forbidden Modern: Civilization and Veiling : Book Review

"The Forbidden Modern" by Nilüfer Göle is a captivating exploration of the intricate relationship between Islam and modernity in the Muslim world. In this thought-provoking book, Göle challenges the conventional view that sees Islam and modernity as irreconcilable forces, and instead offers a nuanced understanding of their complex interactions throughout history.

Göle begins by delving into the emergence of Islamic modernism in the late 19th century, which was a response to the challenges posed by Western colonialism and the rapid changes brought about by Western modernity. This movement sought to reconcile Islamic teachings with the demands of modern life, while also critiquing the blind adoption of Western values and institutions.

One of the key aspects highlighted by Göle is the role of women in Muslim societies. Contrary to popular belief, she reveals how women actively engage with modernity to assert their agency and challenge traditional patriarchal norms. By shedding light on the diverse experiences and struggles of Muslim women, Göle breaks away from simplistic narratives and contributes to a more comprehensive understanding of the dynamics between Islam, gender, and modernity.

Göle also challenges the widely held belief that Islam is incompatible with democracy. She showcases the existence of a variety of Islamic discourses that can contribute to democratic ideals, urging readers to move beyond the perception of Islam as monolithic and static. By recognizing the potential for Islam to engage in democratic processes, Göle offers a more nuanced perspective on the relationship between Islam and governance.

Overall, "The Forbidden Modern" offers a fresh and insightful analysis of the complexities surrounding Islam and modernity. By interrogating established assumptions and providing a comprehensive understanding of the various dimensions and responses to modernity within Islamic societies, Göle's work becomes a valuable contribution to the ongoing discussions and transformations happening in the Muslim world.

What are readers saying?

"The Forbidden Modern" by Nilüfer Göle has garnered a range of responses from readers, showcasing a mixture of praise and criticism. Many readers lauded the book for its insightful analysis and thought-provoking exploration of Islamic modernity. They admired Göle's nuanced understanding of the complex dynamics of religious and cultural identities and hailed the book for its interdisciplinary approach, drawing on sociology, anthropology, and philosophy to offer a comprehensive examination of the subject.

However, there were readers who found "The Forbidden Modern" to be excessively academic and challenging to grasp. The dense and inaccessible language and writing style hindered their ability to fully comprehend the concepts being discussed. Some suggested that prior knowledge in social sciences or Islamic studies would be beneficial in fully appreciating the book.

Another point of contention was the structure of the book. While some readers found the organization of chapters and arguments to be clear and logical, others felt it lacked coherence and flow. Certain sections had to be reread to fully grasp the author's point, detracting from the overall reading experience.

Despite these criticisms, many readers acknowledged the value of "The Forbidden Modern" and regarded it as a significant contribution to the realm of Islamic studies. They found Göle's insights into the tensions between tradition and modernity within Muslim societies, as well as individuals' navigation of their identities in a globalized world, to be particularly compelling.

In summary, "The Forbidden Modern" by Nilüfer Göle delves deep into the analysis of Islamic modernity. While some readers found its academic nature and writing style challenging, others praised its intellectual rigor and interdisciplinary approach. Overall, the book offers valuable insights into the intricate nature of religious and cultural identities in the modern context.

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