This challenging book reviews the ethical foundations of the Islamic legal system, suggesting that an authoritarian reading of scripture has often grave consequences for parts of Muslim society.
Drawing upon both religious and secular sources, Islamic legal expert Khaled Abou EL Fadl argues that divinely ordained law is frequently misinterpreted by Muslim authorities at the expense of certain groups especially women. Citing a series of injustices in Islamic society, from the ban on women driving to the restrictions governing female clothing, Abou EL Fadl's thoughful and cogent study proposes instead a return to the original ethics at the heart of the Muslim legal system.
Combining the very latest scholarship with an accessible writing style and a useful glossary, this provocative and passionate book is required reading for all those interested in the contemporary landscape of Islam, law and women's rights.

1. Induction 9
2. The authoritative 9
3. A Summary transition 86
4. The text and authority 96
5. The construction of the authoritarian 141
6. The anatomy of authoritarian discourses 170
7. Faith-based assumptions and determinations demeaning to women.
Conclusion: resisting the authoritarian while searching for the moral 264

Khaled Abou E1-Fadl studied Islamic Law in Egypt and Kuwait, and has from Pennsylvania, Yale and Princeton. Currently Professor of Law at UCLA, he has served on a variety of committees for Human Rights, and has published several books and numerous articles.