The Muslim brothers in Europe : roots and discourse / / by Brigitte Maréchal.

• Superior document: Muslim minorities, v. 8
• Author: Maréchal, Brigitte.
• Year of Publication: 2008
• Edition: 1st ed.
• Language: English
• Series: Muslim minorities ; v. 8.
• Physical Description: 1 online resource (364 p.)
• Notes: Description based upon print version of record.

This volume provides an overview on the history of the Muslim Brotherhood and the ways its heritage is appropriated by its European members today. They define themselves as the “community of the middle way”, in the centre of Islamic orthodoxy, proposing an ethos and an ideology. However their heritage is composed of many different intellectual strata and these inputs are in tension. The current movement is both powerful and fragile as certain fundamental principles remain respected while many other themes are currently being cautiously questioned. By analysing private interviews and public discourse, this book fills in an important gap in scholarly research. No other in-depth study exists about this little known and reserved but important reference for European Muslims.

Table of Contents

Introduction : the thought of the Muslim brotherhood, at the center of orthodox Islam -- Finding continuity in an unusual and tumultuous history -- The founding of the brotherhood -- The contemporary brotherhood -- Migration and implantation in Europe -- A diverse heritage, marked by a succession of outstanding personalities -- The unchallenged foundational contribution of Hassan al-Bannā -- The thought of Sayyid Qutb : difficult to avoid, but discreetly controversial -- Other classic intellectual figures -- Historical references from within the movement -- Living figures of reference -- A dynamic tradition more or less held in check -- Ideas that lead to action -- Two complementary versions of the movement's heritage -- The brotherhood through action -- Framework principles for the Muslim community -- Morals and social life -- Discourses regarding ultimate purposes and the relationships between different civilizations -- Concrete political projects? -- Strong but confused ideas.