Representation of Islam in the West: Ibn Waraq is an example of dissident Islamologists

Document Type : Original Article

Author

PhD in Islamic History from the Department of History, Faculty of Humanities, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran.

10.30484/jii.2021.2885.1047

Abstract

Among the approaches of Orientalists in Islamic studies in the West, there is the Islam phobic approach. Ibn Warraq is one of the most prominent contemporary Orientalists who, by adopting a pseudonym and calling himself "Salman Rushdie II," has taken steps to promote his works in line with a false and hostile image of Islam, indicating an effort to reflect his thoughts widely. The present study aims to use a descriptive-analytical method while reviewing Ibn Warraq's views to criticize and examine the way the image of Islam is represented in his works. The research shows that Ibn Warraq's works are filled with criticisms of Islam; he tries to portray a frightening and hateful Islam in the minds of his audience by presenting a negative image of Islam. Given the intensity of Islamophobia evident in his works and the clear political goals he pursues, one should not expect academic work from him. Therefore, his works are devoid of critical thinking and a scientific approach.

Keywords

References

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·                    The Image of Islam in the West:
·                    Ibn Warraq is an Example of Hostile Islamology in the West.

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History

  • Receive Date: 04 July 2023
  • Revise Date: 08 September 2023
  • Accept Date: 17 October 2023

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