New Books in Intellectual History

Elizabeth Suzanne Kassab, "Contemporary Arab Thought: Cultural Critique in Comparative Perspective" (Columbia UP, 2025)

Jun 11, 2025
Elizabeth Suzanne Kassab, an associate professor of philosophy at the Doha Institute, delves into contemporary Arab thought and cultural critique. She discusses the polarization in the Arab intellectual scene post-independence, addressing issues like authoritarianism and identity. Kassab shares her personal journey from Western philosophy to engaging with Arab traditions, and highlights pivotal themes from her updated book, including the influence of social history and the significance of art in intellectual discourse. Her insights illuminate shared struggles across the globe.
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ANECDOTE

Kassab's Intellectual Journey

  • Elizabeth Suzanne Kassab described her journey from studying only Western philosophy to exploring Arab thought after recognizing the lack of intellectual history resources.
  • She realized the importance of connecting historical events and philosophical developments, especially related to her region.
INSIGHT

Impact of 1967 Defeat

  • The 1967 defeat triggered ideological reactions including Islamist movements and radical critiques in Arab thought.
  • Kassab focused on the critical response, highlighting Arab intellectuals' deep sense of cultural malaise and despair after repeated regional failures.
INSIGHT

Critical Themes and Comparative Approach

  • Kassab's book explores Arab intellectual debates through themes like cultural malaise, religion, gender, and knowledge, tied by critical questioning rather than ready-made ideologies.
  • She also compares Arab debates with those in Latin America and Africa, revealing shared non-exceptional struggles in the global south.
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