by Noah Feldman
First published 2007
Noah Feldman examines the potential for democratic governance in Muslim nations and advocates for a fundamental shift in American foreign policy. He argues that Islam and democracy can coexist successfully, pointing to growing calls for democratic reform among believing Muslims in authoritarian countries. Feldman contends that America should support these Islamic democrats rather than continue backing repressive regimes that have lost legitimacy with their people. He acknowledges the risks this approach poses to existing alliances and the possibility that fundamentalists might gain power through elections. However, he argues the greater long term danger lies in maintaining support for unpopular autocratic governments. The book provides analysis of the intellectual and political landscape across the contemporary Muslim world and presents a framework for understanding how Muslims who reject violence view global democratization. Feldman makes the case that supporting democratic movements aligns with both American values and strategic interests, offering a path to reduce anti-American sentiment and achieve lasting Middle East peace.
Genres: history, american, political-science, non-fiction, 21st-century, middle-east, islam, academic
Vibes: thought-provoking
Tropes: advocacy
Setting: America, Muslim Nations
Period: Contemporary
272 pages · Kindle Edition · Farrar, Straus and Giroux