Historical Structures of Muslim Society

Throughout the article, three main points or necessities are discussed for the foundation of a humane society. The three necessary components found throughout not only Islam but through the whole of society are partial control, the principle of free movement, and the principle of
cultural heteroglossia. The principle of partial control similarly represents that no one power has complete dominance over the rest of the world so to speak. This is much like today's society as it consists of core states, semi-periphery states, and periphery states with institutional forms of governing.The second principle of free movement allows for people in co-existing in society can act as a lawyer then a house builder, or any other profession. Along with this came "border" which do not necessarily compatible with "umma." In other words that monarch's or rulers would have absolute control over free movement, which again in today's society has rules, yet not always followed in the overall scheme of things. The last principle is Heteroglossia which is constitutes as complex. It refers to believers of the same religion having one ideal and set of code, when in reality they have a multitude of believes all following the same religion. This definition is again applied in today's society, especially in the USA. The USA has a primarily protestant and catholic orientation. Although these religions follow many of the same believes, there is still variation throughout the same religion. The ultimate question posed in the article is do these three principles collaborate to form principles utilized in a humane society. My opinion on this matter is Yes, these principle are still in effect today. These three principles from examples of present day United States proves that the principles are necessary and important in forming a humane society, whether presented in these terms or not they are fundamental properties of human society.

Africanus 2

Throughout this week’s reading Leo Africanus has started to become a man. The passing of his grandmother is first on his way to adulthood. The firsthand account gives a glimpse of how religion varies in past times. Also, the way women are treated compared to relative standards never cease to amaze me in revolution. Leo is sent of start school and along finds a companion for the rest of his days. Grenada fell into the hands of the Castilians. The inquisitors sought to convert all Muslims to Christianity or kill them in process. Africanus speaks of entire city blocks being baptized in order to safe their family. It is so interesting the stance that conquers implemented religion as way to break their captives or subdue them. When I think converting people to different religions today, I refer to missionaries and other ways, however, I do not think of imposing religion upon conquered states. An example of this is Iraq; the United States government did not impose the ultimatum convert to Christianity or die! This is just one interesting difference in social acceptability gained through insight of Leo’s journey.
The second point that’s not really understood until the reading of a firsthand account is the way women were treated. Leo Africanus is finally reunited with his sister after many years, only for father giver hand away in a pre arranged marriage for a business deal. The man turned out to be a low life who amassed riches from stealing, killing, robbing, and more. Today’s standards women have a choice, and are not as dependent on men for financial backing, as well, most marry for love. The women of this time period had no choice, and like a Muslim woman must keep her veiled from eyes. The standards for women have greatly increased; my question for you then is how have they changed in such places that are inhabited by Muslims?