An analysis of the legitimacy and effectiveness of Salafee scholarship as an antidote to extremism
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Authors
Green, Craig
Issue Date
2019-11
Type
Thesis
Language
en
Keywords
Ahl al-Sunna , Counter-narrative , Extremist , Jihaadee , Manhaj , Salafee , Salafism , Shaikh , Takfeer , Terrorism
Alternative Title
Abstract
The label Salafee-Jihaadee has been used to categorize Islamic groups that
espouse violence against the West and Muslim regimes. The typology of Salafee-
Jihaadee is met with vehement disapproval and criticism from adherents to
Salafism. For this reason, the portrayal of Salafees as violent extremists requires
scrutiny.
This study aims to make a unique contribution to knowledge of Salafism by
surveying an extensive literature review, supplemented by interviews of known
Salafee clerics based upon the premise that Salafism is an antidote to Islamic
extremism rather than a cause of violent jihaad and terror.
Furthermore, this research aims to offer new insight into existing literature and
theory regarding Salafism. By re-examining current theory this research attempts to
show that Salafism is an antidote to violent extremism. Therefore, there is a clear
need to explore the relationship between Salafism, violent extremism, and
takfeerism.
In chapter one Salafism is defined and its key features as a movement are
characterized and evaluated. Chapter two analyzes Salafees’ view and role in
denouncing violence and extremism. Chapter three introduces alternative
assessments of Salafism as a movement and evaluates the arguments put forth by
its critics. Chapter four investigates Salafist perceptions of pluralism particularly in
Western non-Muslim societies. Chapter five details the role of Salafees and their
counter arguments to extremism. The final chapter details the conclusions of the
research, which indicate that Salafism is not a precursor to violence, but rather the
efforts of Salafee scholars offer effective counter-narratives to the jihaadeetakfeeree
paradigm.