Islam Between East & West: New Reflections, Notes From Prison

Synopsis: 

This book, written by Alija Izetbegovic, former President of Bosnia, is a collection of philosophical reflections on various topics including freedom, politics, history, religion, and morality. Composed while the author was incarcerated in Foča Prison, Sarajevo, for five years, these notes offer a unique perspective on the human condition.

Key Insights

• The Middle Path: Izetbegovic views Islam as a balance between the material and metaphysical worlds, providing a moral influence on creation.
• Cultural Crisis: He examines the roots of the cultural crisis, moral anarchy, and political upheavals in the modern West, attributing them to partial truths and reductionist ideological perspectives.
• Three Elemental Possibilities: The author identifies three distinct views of the world: religious, materialistic, and Islamic, highlighting the importance of understanding and reconciling these perspectives.

Themes

• Freedom and Morality: Izetbegovic explores the relationship between freedom and morality, emphasising the need for a balanced approach that respects both individual liberty and collective responsibility.
• Politics and History: He reflects on the role of politics and history in shaping human society, emphasising the importance of understanding the past to inform present and future decisions.
• Religion and Spirituality: The author discusses the significance of religion and spirituality in human life, highlighting Islam’s potential to provide a moral framework for individual and collective behaviour.

Unique Aspect

• Notes from Prison: The book’s unique aspect lies in its composition during Izetbegovic’s imprisonment, which adds a layer of introspection and contemplation to the author’s reflections. Despite the challenging circumstances, the author’s philosophical insights remain profound and thought-provoking.

This book is new!