Introduction to Islam

About the course

This online course will bring together participants from diverse backgrounds in an engaging environment, to discuss key issues faced by Muslims around the globe. A pluralistic and civilisational approach will be adopted, highlighting the role of human agency, creativity and imagination in devising new solutions to the challenges encountered by contemporary Muslims.

Aims of the programme

• Introduce participants to some critical and analytical tools to address cultural, political and intellectual issues.
• Facilitate the development of a historical understanding of the evolution of various Muslim communities, including the Ismailis, through time, and a nuanced understanding of the consequent diversity of beliefs, practices, and ethics.
• Discuss key concepts such as secularisation, authority and leadership, politics and the state, good governance and civil society, pluralism and cosmopolitan ethics, situating these ideas within their historical, cultural and geopolitical contexts, drawing on perspectives articulated by critical leaders and thinkers as well as the Ismaili Imamat.
• Explore the role played by art, architecture and literature in the development of Muslim civilisations, past and present.

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