Hamas and Civil Society in Gaza: Engaging the Islamist Social Sector
Sara RoyRoy demonstrates how Islamic social institutions in Gaza & the West Bank advocated a moderate approach to change that valued order & stability, not disorder and instability; were less dogmatically Islamic than is often assumed; & served people who had a range of political outlooks and no history of acting collectively in support of radical Islam. These institutions attempted to create civic communities, not religious congregations. They reflected a deep commitment to stimulate a social, cultural, & moral renewal of the Muslim community, one couched not only--or even primarily--in religious terms.
Vividly illustrating Hamas's unrecognized potential for moderation, accommodation, & change, Hamas & Civil Society in Gaza also traces critical developments in Hamas's social & political sectors through the Second Intifada to today, & offers an assessment of the current, more adverse situation in the occupied territories. The Oslo period held great promise that has since been squandered. This book argues for more enlightened policies by the United States & Israel, ones that reflect Hamas's proven record of nonviolent community building.