New Books Network Abdul Wohab, "Secularism and Islam in Bangladesh: 50 Years After Independence" (Routledge, 2025)
May 22, 2025
In this discussion, Abdul Wohab, an Assistant Professor of Sociology at North South University in Dhaka, delves into the intricate relationship between secularism and Islam in Bangladesh over the past fifty years. He offers insights into the cultural identity crisis following independence and how modern politics interplay with religious sentiments. Wohab argues against applying Western definitions of secularism, emphasizing local nuances and highlights shifts in educational trends, including the rise of madrasa education, raising crucial questions for the future.
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Bangladesh's Unique Secularism
- Bangladesh practices a unique form of secularism that respects all religions equally rather than privatizing religion.
- This pluralistic syncretism reflects the country's historical coexistence of diverse religious communities.
Youth Tensions on Modernity
- Young Islamist political members in Bangladesh exhibit tensions between traditional religion and modern concepts like democracy and Westernization.
- This generational split highlights ongoing debates about modernity in Bangladeshi Islam.
Toward Post-Secular Society
- Bangladesh is moving toward a post-secular society where religion increasingly appears in public and political domains.
- This challenges traditional distinctions between public and private spheres regarding religion.