"This brilliant analysis of ideological ferment in contemporary Iran is an eye-opening revelation of the issues created by the political role of Islam. It also gives profound insights into situations around the world where religion has become a part of social dissent. This book shows that when religion enters the public sphere it becomes a contested field of interpretation-even by its ardent proponents. Far from a simple 'clash of civilizations,' the politicization of religion creates crises internal to communities of faith and new challenges to understanding the relationship between culture and political power. This book should be essential reading for anyone who wants to understand the internal character of today’s global rebellion against the secular state."--Mark Juergensmeyer, Professor of Sociology and Global Studies, University of California, Santa Barbara
"This book will become recognized as one of the best reassessments of the Revolution and of the roles played by the likes of Soroush, Shariati and indeed Khomeini himself. … [drawing on] numerous specific references to Irani sources that are not generally available to readers outside of Iran and who do not read Farsi. … [The chapter on Soroush] presents the best intellectual history of the Revolution I have read."--Richard Martin, Professor of Islamic Studies and History of Religion, Emory University
"Could become a standard reference in courses on Islam and modernity, as well as Iran"-- Omid Safi, Professor of Islamic Studies, UNC & Chair for Study of Islam Section, American Academy of Religion
"Suitable for courses on Islam, politics and modern society, and accessible for upper-level undergraduate as well as graduate students"--Valerie J Hoffman, (specialist in Islam), Associate Professor, Department of Religion, University of Illinois
