Islamic Futures: The Shape of Ideas to Come
Chapter 9 criticises the state-of-the-art in Islamic economics and identifies at least five broad areas for further research. Opposes any borrowing from Western economics and calls for an entirely new economics based on the world-view of Islam. Chapter 12 deals with the Islamic alternative to development. Criticises the prevalent concept of development in which it has been equated with urbanisation and industrialisation in the basic framework of Western civilization. The Muslim countries can never catch up with Western countries in material development. With the development of the micro-chip they would lose their advantage of cheap labour to the West. Development in the Islamic perspective means tazkiya in its social meaning. it implies meeting the basic needs of the umma and shaking-off its dependence on non—Muslims. Tazkiya suggests growth of Muslim societies in a human, environmental, cultural and social perspective to achieve social justice and eco-balance. The best course would be a joint effort by all Muslim countries to achieve self-reliance and self—sufficiency. A highly stimulating book. For Muslim scholars. Based on primary sources. Documented.
Islamisation of Knowledge or the Westernisation of Islam?
Criticism of Islamic Economics
The Future of Islamic Studies
Although the paper has been written in broad and general terms for Islamic studies, yet it has important methodological lessons for the Muslim economists: Islamic studies should be multi-disciplinary and should consist of the Islamic world-view. The primary sources of Qur'anic tafsir hadith, sira, and history should be used to illustrate the basic Islamic concepts and not as ubjects per se. This general approach is applicable to Islamic economics as well. Meant for scholars and laymen. Based on primary sources. Documented.
Science, Technology and Development in the Muslim World
Reviews the science policy and development strategy of the Muslim world. Argues that the Muslim world is heavily dependent on the West. The Western concepts of development and technology do not suit the Muslim umma. The umma should outgrow the centuries—old colonial heritage and adopt an indigenous approach. It should rely on its own resources; develop such technology which helps eliminate poverty and create full employment. Instead of ruthless industrialisation, it should develop agriculture. The dual education system should be integrated and should synthesize Islamic values with scientific facts. An original study. Bold and challenging. For Muslim scholars. Based on primary sources. Documented.