Islamism as Philosophy explores some of the philosophical assumptions that frame the way in which the rise of Muslim political identity throughout the planet presents challenges which are not only cultural and geopolitical but also conceptual.

In a series of reflections, this book teases out some of the complexities of the emergence of Muslim political identities, complexities which are often covered up by the latest screaming headline. The book argues that a world in which a quarter of the population seems increasingly conscious of its "Muslimness" cannot be peaceful, harmonious or just without careful attention being paid to the Muslim question.

Islamism as Philosophy's argues that an increasing consciousness of the Muslim is neither superficial nor transitory and as such requires rigorous and serious consideration. If the Muslim Awakening is a wave of world historical import akin to the emergence of nationalism in the 19th and 20th century, then the choices that present themselves are either to try and roll back the tide or learn to surf.

S. Sayyid is a Reader in the School of Sociology and Social Policy at the University of Leeds, UK.