Despite being one of the key Shi'i Muslim communities; the Ismailis were until recently studied primarily on the basis of the accounts of their enemies. This new introduction is the first to be based on modern scholarship; taking account of recently recovered Ismaili texts. It covers all the main developments in the major phases of Ismaili history; from the early formative period; through the Fatamid golden age and the Alamut and post-Alamut periods; to more recent history. Dealing only with the most important historical developments; this is a comprehensive and accessible survey for all newcomers to the subject.
#246164 in Books Polity 2003-06-04 2017-07-06Original language:EnglishPDF # 1 9.10 x .84 x 6.05l; 1.00 #File Name: 0745628206304 pages
Review
5 of 5 people found the following review helpful. Sweeping; erudite; and insightfulBy Phil ZuckermanBruce is my favorite sociologist of religion. His CHOICE AND RELIGION is a masterful refutation of Stark's work; and his GOD IS DEAD delves into the realities of secularization in Europe with data nd theory soundly enmeshed. This new book is amazing. It covers an enormous amount of territory. Bruce has been carefully studying religion for decades; and it shows. His knowledge is truly sweeping. Bruce lays important criticisms as Muslim societies. He discusses why liberty; democracy; gender equality; and basic liberal tolerance are largely absent from most Muslim nations. Having several friends who must endure the hell that is modern-day Iran; his discussion is readily applicable and important. I applaud his willingness to critique Islam; and Muslim socities; in the face of those who will fault him for being "culturally insensitive." His explanation for secularization in Europe largely echoes Berger's SACRED CANOPY. I fear his dismissal of the Christain Right in the USA may be a bit optimistic and naive. He suggests that for all its PR hype; the CR has largely failed in most of its goals. However; the current poltical climate in this country seems to suggest greater strength of the CR; not diminished. We'll see. Finally; the greatest strength of this book was also its greatest weakness -- it was so sweeping in its analysis; and so inclusive of so many themes; topics; religions; countries; developments; etc. -- that at times it felt like almost TOO much. Nearly every theme/case study raised in this book could comprise a separate book in and of itself. Bruce's work on religion demands careful consideration and attention. He is brilliant.
