For Muslim Minorities, it is Possible to Endorse Political Liberalism, but This is not Enough

Journal of Islamic Law and Culture, Vol. 11, No. 2, pp. 71-87, May 2009

18 Pages Posted: 20 Mar 2010 Last revised: 21 Feb 2011

Date Written: May 1, 2009

Abstract

This article discusses the inclusion of Muslim citizens under the Rawlsian conception of liberal citizenship. We show that Muslim and liberal conceptions make similar demands on the relationship between normative principles and the empirical context. We also explain how Muslim and liberal views can be made compatible. However, some challenges remain: all Muslims could endorse liberal citizenship, but some Muslims should not endorse it, given the norms of revision of their Muslim doctrine. For political liberalism, this raises a moral problem.

Keywords: Islam, Muslims, liberalism, citizenship, Rawls

Suggested Citation

Benhenda, Mostapha, For Muslim Minorities, it is Possible to Endorse Political Liberalism, but This is not Enough (May 1, 2009). Journal of Islamic Law and Culture, Vol. 11, No. 2, pp. 71-87, May 2009, Available at SSRN: https://ssrn.com/abstract=1574982

Mostapha Benhenda (Contact Author)

École Normale Supérieure (ENS) ( email )

45 rue d’Ulm
Paris Cedex 05, F-75230
France

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