Islamic civilization in the age of globalization: An introduction
he phenomenon of globalization has emerged as a pivotal force reshaping the contours of societies and cultures across the globe, manifesting distinct implications for Islamic civilization.Traditionally characterized by its diverse cultural, philosophical, and theological narratives, Islamic civilization now confronts both opportunities and challenges within this global framework.As aspects of Islamic identity intermingle with global norms, the notion of cultural security becomes essential, particularly in preserving ethno-religious identities amid migratory movements and cultural exchanges (Vodenko et al., 2020).The historical memory of Muslims, as well as the integration of modern technologies, raises significant questions about how Islamic tenets can coexist with or adapt to the emerging global culture (Amhar, 2022).Moreover, the discourse surrounding Islamic civilization in the age of globalization cannot be divorced from Samuel Huntington's provocative thesis regarding a "clash of civilizations," which has ignited vigorous debate about how cultural identities interact in a globalized world.While some scholars advocate for this viewpoint to explain ongoing conflicts, others challenge its validity, arguing that it oversimplifies the complexities and interconnectedness inherent in global interactions (Fox, 2001).This analytical landscape invites a reevaluation of how Muslims perceive their roles as global citizens, harmonizing their religious commitments with an evolving global narrative (Amhar, 2022).Furthermore, critical reflections on the Islamic renaissance reveal a profound engagement by Muslim intellectuals striving to navigate the dualities of tradition and modernity, which are often juxtaposed in the context of Western influence (Gamarra, 2015).The implications of this dualism extend into the realm of economic development, where Islamic economic models increasingly contend for relevance amid the broader capitalist framework, seeking to offer ethically aligned alternatives that resonate within a global marketplace (Botoeva, 2018).The revival of interest in Islamic principles and ethics is gaining traction as it intersects with contemporary issues such as environmental sustainability and economic justice, challenging conventional paradigms within global capitalism (El-Ansary, 2018).In essence, the relationship between Islamic civilization and globalization is marked by a dynamic interplay of identity, tradition, and modernity, leading to a multifaceted discourse that reflects both historical legacies and contemporary exigencies.The struggle to maintain a cohesive Islamic identity while engaging with global developments underscores the necessity of embracing pluralistic narratives that recognize the diverse expressions of Muslim life under globalization (Arjomand, 2011;Hassan, 2006).This synthesis underscores the urgent need for ongoing scholarly inquiry into Islamic civilization's adaptive resilience as it navigates the complexities of the contemporary global context.
Authors
- Syarul Azman Shaharuddin (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-1687-1292)
Institutions
- Selangor Islamic University (MY)
Publication Details
- Journal
- al-Irsyad Journal of Islamic and Contemporary Issues
- Published
- 2025-04-15
- DOI
- https://doi.org/10.53840/alirsyad.v7i2.513
- Citations
- 1
- Primary Topic
- Asian Studies and History
- Type
- article
- Field-Weighted Citation Impact
- 4.20