
The Thinking Muslim
Can Muslims Resist Modernity? with Hasan Spiker
Nov 22, 2024
Hasan Spiker, author of "The Unraveling of Intelligibility," delves into the clash between Islam and Western notions of modernity. He argues that modernity is not universal but a tool for Western domination. Spiker critiques the misconception of modernity's neutrality and its implications for the Muslim community. He discusses how Islam can serve as a counter-hegemonic force, promoting genuine diversity against the limitations of liberalism. Engaging with modernity, he advocates for a proactive approach that retains spiritual integrity in a rapidly changing world.
01:51:34
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Quick takeaways
- Modernity is a Western construct, mistakenly perceived as universal, leading to disempowerment among Muslims due to its hegemonic implications.
- Islam presents a comprehensive framework aligning spiritual and temporal authority, countering the secular divide prevalent in modern ideologies.
Deep dives
The Nature of Modernity
Modernity is rooted in specific historical contexts, particularly arising from European philosophical and cultural developments such as the Enlightenment and the Industrial Revolution. It is often mistakenly perceived as a universal and neutral phenomenon, but it is inherently tied to Western experiences and ideologies. This misunderstanding leads to a sense of disempowerment within Muslim communities who may view modernity as the default framework. The speaker asserts that many globalized ideologies, including liberalism and communism, are manifestations of this singular Western narrative, suggesting that Islam offers an alternative worldview.
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