Exploring the Future of Political Islam: Dr. Ahmed Meiloud’s Groundbreaking Monograph

A new monograph by AUK assistant professor of near Eastern studies, Dr. Ahmed Meiloud explores a transformative shift in contemporary Islamist thought, focusing on the application of Islamic classical legal theory to modern politics. The work highlights how Islamists are using the concept of maqasid—the Lawgiver’s objectives—to envision a political sphere where reason, rather than religion, reigns supreme. 

This groundbreaking approach moves beyond reconciling faith with reason, suggesting that a deeper understanding of Islam inherently aligns rational governance with Shari’a principles. Commenting on the reason for writing this monograph, Dr. Ahmed said, “The current book aims to illuminate a pivotal yet overlooked development in contemporary Islamist thought. This development is the Islamists' exploration of Islamic classical legal theory for a conception of politics that is both Islamic and anthropocentric, religious and rational, morally grounded and liberal.” By examining debates within Islamic cultures, the book argues that these internal discussions about governance and human agency are far more influential in shaping future generations of Muslims than external pressures or secular arguments. 

The study reveals how leading Islamists are liberating the political realm from narrow interpretations of Islamic law, developing a liberal theory rooted in Islamic tradition. This theory offers immense potential for bridging traditional and modern worldviews, resolving questions of political legitimacy, and fostering inclusive governance in the Muslim world. Through the lens of maqasid, the book reimagines Islam’s legal heritage as a source of profound intellectual and political innovation.
  
Dr. Ahmed’s monograph is available for purchase here.