Courses

    The seminar will address the basic question of how Islamic Law (Shari`a) can remain relevant and applicable in present Islamic societies, whether Muslims constitute the majority or minority of the population. Following an introduction to the nature, sources, and techniques of Shari`a, along with its main concepts, principles, and rules, the seminar will focus on the relationship between Shari`a and modern legal systems, and examine some of the social and cultural implications of adherence to Shari`a among Muslims today. Possible substantive aspects of Shari`a to be considered include transactions and contracts, banking and commercial law, family law and inheritance, and international law and human rights. The seminar will highlight and illustrate these issues in a range of countries where Muslims constitute the predominant majority of the population, and for Muslim minorities in Western countries. The seminar concludes with an overview and discussion of the future of Shari`a.