Offering a timely new appraisal of the political and social impact of Islam, Religion and Politics will be welcomed by political scientists and historians alike. 'In this bold and original work, two scholars of political Islam combine their impressive analytical skills to reinterpret the relationship of Islam to modernity. Through a careful synthesis of history and sociological theory with Max Weber at its core, Lane and Redissi place Islam within a fully modernist construct while reaffirming the faith's cultural essence, humanistic character and progressive orientation. A brilliant and compelling retort to those who see only radicalism, terrorism and violence in political Islam.' Professor John P. Entelis, Fordham University, USA '...an extremely valuable contribution to the debate.' New Politics Network '...offers an interesting tool for the understanding of recent political and historical developments in the Arab world.' Global Change, Peace and Security '...an interesting and timely study of Islam and its relationship to the West in general and in modern and post-modern societies in particular.' The Muslim News