Global Jihadism: A Transnational Social Movement by Reza Aslan


Global Jihadism: A Transnational Social Movement
Title : Global Jihadism: A Transnational Social Movement
Author :
Rating :
ISBN : 3639250060
ISBN-10 : 9783639250060
Language : English
Format Type : Paperback
Number of Pages : 156
Publication : First published April 30, 2010

This study examines the phenomenon of Global Jihadism through the lens of modern social movement theory. Through an in-depth analysis of its history, beliefs, and practices, the book argues that Jihadism has taken on many of the same characteristics as other social movements of the 20th century, most notably the civil rights movement, the radical environmental movement, the feminist movement, the black power movement, and the anti-globalization movement, all of which are replete with individuals who exist on the radical fringes of the political spectrum and all of which bring together a wide array of political views, ethnic backgrounds, socio- economic statuses, and ideological causes under a master frame in which grievances are identified, blame assigned, solutions suggested, and participants mobilized. By treating Global Jihadism as a social movement and noting the parallels between it and similar movements the book argues that we can more effectively confront the security challenges posed by this little understood but much- feared ideology.

Global Jihadism: A Transnational Social Movement Reviews

  • Heather Reads Books

    A straightforward and thoughtful approach to the history of Global Jihadism, its relationship with Islamism, and how it can be defeated. Although "jihadism" is thrown around casually in popular political discourse, this dissertation is the first time I've ever seen it specifically defined and put in its proper historical context. Aslan takes care to back up the history with actual texts given by ideologues in the movement, which you would think is a no-brainer – yet I've never seen anyone in the popular media attempt to actually engage with such ideals.

    Aslan's thesis is likewise compelling – the argument that jihadism is not a religious nor political movement but a social one makes a great deal of sense. A very worthwhile read for those who are academically inclined and interested in the subject. I believe he has incorporated some of this work into his book intended more for a lay audience, Beyond Fundamentalism. Perhaps that might be a better introductory text (I have not read it in its entirety yet; it's on the list), but if you're used to scholarly formats and have an interest in the sociological context of terrorism, this is a highly informative read.

  • Vader

    5 star - Perfect
    4 star - i would recommend
    3 star - good
    2 star - struggled to complete
    1 star - could not finish