ATS2586 - Islam: Principles, civilisations, influences - 2018

The unit examines the evolution and influence of Islam, with particular emphasis on the principles underpinning Islamic law, theology, philosophy, arts, and mysticism, and Islamic civilisation in its classic phase. It examines core themes in the Qur'an, and in early works of Islamic history, literature and jurisprudence, as well as the different ways in which these principles were interpreted in practice from a historical perspective. We will review the discussions surrounding the birth of Islam, Islamic pre-modern and modern history, Islamic concepts of God and society, roles of women and minorities, Islamic doctrines, movements, colonial encounters, politics, modernism, and Islam in the world, among other themes. The course materials entail selections from important primary sources, as well as video documentaries.

Upon successful completion of the unit, students will be able to:

1. explain the historical development of Islamic societies, and familiarity with the essential texts and major schools of thought;
2. identify and discuss key figures, narratives, doctrines, practices, and their rich variety across changing landscapes throughout the history;
3. read and analyse primary sources, and draw connections between these and the lectures and tutorial discussions in order to respond critically to the material;
4. work effectively in group situations, and communicate their ideas through formal presentations.

Within semester assessment: 80% + Exam: 20%

Minimum total expected workload to achieve the learning outcomes for this unit is 144 hours per semester typically comprising a mixture of scheduled learning activities and independent study. A unit requires on average three/four hours of scheduled activities per week. Scheduled activities may include a combination of teacher directed learning, peer directed learning and online engagement.

See also Unit timetable information

Islamic studies

International studies

Religious studies