Norwegian Ḥarakī Salafism: “The Saved Sect” Hugs the Infidels
Issue: Vol 8 No. 1-2 (2012)
Journal: Comparative Islamic Studies
Subject Areas: Religious Studies Islamic Studies
Abstract:
The article defines the Norwegian organization Islam Net with reference to current research on Salafism, and analyses Islam Net’s capacity for civil engagement through de Certeau’s and Habermas’ concepts of discourse. The main findings are that Islam Net can be defined both as “European Ḥarakī Salafism” and “neo-fundamentalism”. It is a publicly oriented and negotiated form of Salafism which engages in civic political activities for the sake of “clarifying misunderstanding of Islam”, while maintaining Salafi creed and legal method. Yet their capacity for civic engagement is limited by public refusal to both accept and discuss gender segregation at public meetings, a practice that Islam Net’s members in their turn refuse to negotiate. With reference to Habermas’ concept of public discourse, it is argued that public refusal to dialogue with Islam Net over this issue potentially weakens the legitimacy of liberal democracy.
Author: Ulrika Mårtensson
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