Akbar S. Ahmed

‘Ethnic cleansing’: A metaphor for our time?

Abstract The intense ethnic assertion of identity often translated into violence ‐ethnic cleansing ‐ can be largely explained as a consequence of the challenge to the project of modernity (economic development, justice, rule of law, the mass media, satellite technology and transport). Although ethnic cleansing itself is not a new phenomenon, developments in the mass media allow it to play a crucial role in influencing people in their perception of culture on an unprecedented scale. Hatred of the enemy, defined simply in ethnic or religious terms, is heightened through the use of television. Honour, glory, past mythology and ethnic nationalism are extolled, creating a predisposition for extreme arguments. Rape or sexual intimidation is extensively employed to terrorize and humiliate the ethnic enemy and explains the bitterness among combatants. The article considers its theoretical and methodological implications. First, all such crises need to be looked at in a global frame, those who share the religion o...

Bombay Films: The Cinema as Metaphor for Indian Society and Politics

It is difficult to distinguish between art and life in South Asian society; they no longer imitate each other but appear to have merged. Political philosophies, social values, group behaviour, speech and dress in society are reflected in the cinema and, like a true mirror, reflect back in society. Furthermore, film stars cross over from their fantasy world into politics to emerge as powerful figures guiding the destiny of millions. It is thus possible to view the cinema as a legitimate metaphor for society; this perception helps us to understand society better.

Pakistan society : Islam, ethnicity, and leadership in South Asia

The central theme of this structured study revolves around the complexity and diversity of Pakistan society, illustrated by case studies from Pakistan. Drawing upon anthropological and historical evidence and the extensive personal field experience of the writer, the book highlights the complex relationship between ethnicity, political and leadership issues in South Asia.

Pakistan : the social sciences' perspective

David M. Hart : The Afridi of the Khaibar tribal agency and the Kohat frontier region Dr Akbar S. Ahmed: Hazarawal: Formation and structure of district ethnicity the cases of Dir and Swat David Busby Edwards: Frontiers, boundaries and frames: The marginal identity of Afghan refugees Richard M. Emerson: Charismatic Kingship: A study of state formation and authority in Baltistan David Gilmartin: Shrines, succession and sources of moral authority in the Punjab Katherine Ewing: The politics of Sufism, redefining the saints Hafeezur Rehman Chaudhry: The shrine and lunger of Golpa Sharif Dr Mohammed Waseem: Urban growth and political change at the local level: The case of Faisalabad city 1947-75 Richard Kurin: The structure of blessedness at a Muslim shrine in Sind Carroll McC. Pastner: A social structural and historical analysis of honour, shame and purdah in Baluchistan Yuri Gankovsky: Social structure of Pakistans Brahui - Baluchi population Stephen L. Pastner: Powers and pirs among the Pakistani Baluchi

Postmodernism and Islam: Predicament and Promise.

1. Postmodernism and Islam 2. Greek Gods and Semitic Prophets 3. Confrontation and Clash 4. Studying Islam 5. Culture and Change 6. The Evil Demon: The Media as master

Migration, Death and Martyrdom in Rural Pakistan

This chapter focuses on migration, its impact both on the individual and his or her society, and the social processes which may be triggered by a migrant’s return home. Although several economic studies have been conducted on Pakistani migratory labour, a social anthropological or cultural perspective of this migration is, on the whole, notably missing. How do Pakistanis abroad adapt to new ideas? What do they do with them on return? Do they shift away from so-called ‘traditional’ culture once home again? Do they accept — or challenge — the traditional leadership, class and social structure from which they escaped? Do kinship loyalties survive or fade?

Afghanistan: The Great Game Revisited—A Review Article

The four books reviewed are different in discipline and approach and written for widely different audiences. They are, however, linked in their articulation as a contemporary response to the larger political situation in and around Afghanistan. Certain fundamental issues are raised that relate to the Russian invasion of Afghanistan in 1979, for instance, will the Russians continue their advance to the warm waters of the Indian Ocean (as suggested by the proponents of the Great Game thesis)? An understanding of the current situation in Afghanistan will provide clues to the possible future outcome of the Russian invasion. On that outcome depends the present balance of world power. If the Russians reach the warm waters of the Gulf, they are ideally poised to threaten South Asia and the Middle East. An understanding of the situation in Afghanistan is thus of primary importance.

The Clash of Civilizations

“The Muslim situation is so desperate. I would gladly give my life for their cause.” These were the chilling words of my dinner companion on a balmy spring evening at an elegant upscale restaurant in Amman. A seasoned diplomat in smart attire, complete with pink silk tie and handkerchief, this former Iraqi ambassador, now head of a major Arab think tank, spoke in measured and quiet tones shaped by years of service, making his message all the more forlorn: “I have nothing to live for. I have lost my culture, my homeland, my honor. I have lost my religion.”

FOR ADAM AND IBRAHIM

Abstract Interfaith dialogue between Muslims, Christians, and Jews is necessary to dispel the misunderstandings and hatred heightened by 9/11. Those of the Abrahamic faith must first acknowledge the contributing factors to a feeling of besiegement felt by members of all three faiths. Christians, Muslims, and Jews each have valid reasons for their infighting, even if they are based in misperceptions of the “other” and rhetoric. Each faith must work towards a greater understanding of each other for the sake of all.

Jefferson and Jinnah: Humanist Ideals and the Mythology of Nation-Building

On September 11, 2001, the world of Thomas Jefferson, founding father of the United States, and that of Muhammad Ali Jinnah, the founding father of Pakistan, came dramatically and tragically face to face with each other. The events of that day would impact on both societies in ways that the respective founding fathers could not imagine. America launched a war against terrorism. The immediate target was the Taliban regime and Al-Qaeda with its leader Osama bin Laden in Afghanistan. Considering that the Taliban were nurtured and educated in neighboring Pakistani schools, and that the movement has been supported by Pakistan, the role of that country in America’s war against terrorism became crucial.