Comparative Study: Islam and the West - Political and Social Views

This essay provides a comparative analysis of Islam and the West, focusing on their differing political and social structures. It examines the role of liberal democracy in Western states and contrasts it with the state interference often seen in Middle Eastern Arabic states, highlighting the impact on human rights. The essay discusses the influence of the Quran in Muslim-majority countries and the tension between obedience and authoritarianism, particularly concerning the rights of women. It also explores the evolving perspectives of the new generation of Muslims, who are increasingly questioning traditional interpretations and advocating for equality and humanitarian standards. Furthermore, the essay addresses the international community's perception of Islamic states and the efforts of these states to reconcile their religious principles with modern expectations. Desklib offers a wealth of similar resources for students seeking academic support.

Running head: ISLAM AND THE WEST
Islam and the West
Name of the Student
Name of the University
Author Note

1ISLAM AND THE WEST
Response to Question 1
The political and social structure of most of the States of the modern contemporary world
are structured in accordance with the principles of liberal democracy. This is essential as the
individuals are widely becoming more interested in the various rights which are guaranteed to
them. The agency of the State of a liberal democracy has the utmost obligation to ensure that all
the fundamental human rights are enjoyed by its citizens and there is no encroachment on these
rights. However, when it comes to the Arabic States situated in the Middle East region, there is a
prevalence of the interference of the State in the activities of human beings (Safa, 1996). The
more the State interferes in the personal lives of the human beings, the greater is the erosion of
the human rights. Thus, in order to maintain the sovereignty of the individual, there is a need to
keep the State separated from the personal lives of individuals. This will ensure democratization.
Response to Question 2
The Muslim majority countries follow the principles of Quran, believing them to be the
dictates of God. These principles are enforced by a small group of religious people and their duty
is to ensure that every Muslim obeys the laws of Quran. However, a fine line exists between
obedience and authoritarianism. Obedience exists when there is voluntary adherence to the
concerned laws (Lewis, 2002). However, when this obedience is compelled from the people,
then it degenerates into authoritarianism. This situation particularly exists for the Muslim women
who are forced to adhere to the principles of Quran. On the other hand, the men are given a lot of
scope to not follow the rules.
Response to Question 3

2ISLAM AND THE WEST
The new generation of Muslims are disillusioned with the sanctity of the principles of
Quran. They prefer the use of logic and reasoning to justify the various actions and
circumstances. The Muslim youth of the contemporary world are trying to break the barriers by
giving equal status to the women (Scherlen, 2008). The purdah system have been made voluntary
which was earlier mandatory for the Muslim women. Moreover, the harsh punishment system
which was meted out to the criminals are being revised to suit the humanitarian standards.
Response to Question 4
The States adhering to the principles of Islam are viewed with animosity and
apprehension. The Muslim States are being pressurized by the international community to
democratize themselves. The international community believes that no human rights are granted
to the Muslim population. The Muslim women are made to face a lot of hardships and they are
perpetually under the control of their male counterparts. The image of the Islamic States in the
world is that of an oppressor. However, these Muslim States maintain that Islam is a religion of
peace and it provides highest respect to its women (Aslan, 2011). This religion has been
misrepresented by those who do not understand them. Such Islamic States are trying to resist the
changing times by a revising their rules and policies in accordance with their Quranic scriptures.

3ISLAM AND THE WEST
References:
Aslan, R. (2011). No god but God: The origins, evolution, and future of Islam. Random House.
Lewis, B. (2002). What went wrong?: Western impact and Middle Eastern response. Oxford
University Press.
Safa, R. F. (1996). Inside Islam: Exposing and Reaching the World of Islam. Charisma Media.
Scherlen, A. (2008). They Call Me Muslim. Counterpoise, 12(2), 39.