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Jul 30, 2025
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RLST117 PO - Islamic Law: Justice, Ethics, and Power in the Muslim WorldWhen Offered: Each fall.
Instructor(s): S. Khan
Credit: 1
This course offers an in-depth introduction to Islamic law or the Shari’a by examining its substantive content and historical evolution. Students will gain a holistic understanding of the Shari’a’s major doctrines and practices, ranging from laws of worship and ritual purity to institutions of marriage, slavery, war, and economic welfare. We will examine the broader historical and sociological contexts in which Islamic legal schools evolved, from 7th century Arabia to colonialism and the modern nation-state. The second half of the course will focus on the Shari’a’s tumultuous relationship with liberal democracy and secularism. Students will critically assess the cultural and normative presuppositions informing discourses on the relationship between Islamic law and terrorism, women’s rights, and the treatment of minorities. The course carries no prerequisites and is open to all majors. No background knowledge of Islam is assumed.
Satisfies the following General Education Requirement(s), subject to conditions explained in the Degree Requirements section of this Catalog:
PO Area 3 Requirement
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