Islam, Charity, and Activism

Much of the literature on Islamic Social Institutions (ISIs) has argued that these institutions are recruiting grounds for the poor. Clark (Univ. of Guelph, Ca.), through case studies of ISIs in Egypt, Yemen, and Jordan takes this notion to task. She argues that the vertical networks (i.e. across classes) created through ISIs are weak, that the important social networks are the horizontal ones within the middle class, and that this is in keeping with social movement theories. In addition, she demonstrates how a strategy of solidifying middle class networks,one that is demanded by the operational needs of ISIs, may actually work to discredit Islamic movements that support these ISIs in the long run. Finally, she argues that ISIs do not necessarily seek radical transformation of society and that there is nothing obviously Islamic in their provision of services. Her argument is clear and easy to follow, and the case studies are rich with supportive data. However, in some respects, the case study of the Islah Charitable Society in Yemen, differs from the others and raises questions about her contentions, particularly about the Islamic nature of ISI activities. Summing Up: Recommended. Advancedlevel undergraduates and graduates, specifically those interested in civil society in the region and Islamism. -- F. J. Adely * Choice * Much of the literature on Islamic Social Institutions (ISIs) has argued that these institutions are recruiting grounds for the poor. Clark (Univ. of Guelph, Ca.), through case studies of ISIs in Egypt, Yemen, and Jordan takes this notion to task. . . . Her argument is clear and easy to follow, and the case studies are rich with supportive data. . . . Recommended. July 2004 * Choice *

Janine A. Clark is Associate Professor of Political Science at the University of Guelph and co-editor (with Remonda Bensabat-Kleinberg) of Economic Liberalization, Democratization, and Civil Society in the Developing World.

Preliminary Table of Contents: List of Tables and Charts Preface and Acknowledgments 1. Islamic Social Institutions, Social Movement Theory, and the Middle Classes 2. Islamic Medical Clinics in Egypt: The Operational Imperatives of ISIs and the Role of Middle Class Networks 3. The Islamic Center Charity Society in Jordan: The Benefits to the Middle Class 4. The Islah Charitable Society in Yemen: Women's Social Networks, Charity and Da'wa 5. The Significance of Being Middle Class Notes Bibliography Index