Concepts of development in Islam: a review of contemporary literature and practice

Abstract

This article explores whether and the extent to which the Islamic tradition espouses particular development models. Specifically the purpose of this paper is to provide an overview of recent materials produced by relevant Islamic institutions and by some of the main academic interpreters, in order to assist in the development of a basic conceptual understanding of the factors that may influence particular Islamic approaches to development issues encountered in the field. As background, first some trends in the study of Islam are identified, and then a brief history of Islamic civilization is sketched. The paper then moves to explain the basic tenets of the Muslim face, followed by a description of the main Islamic sects. The article finally moves to an exploration of some key pan-Islamic organizations, and their role in development.