IEF 402 Governance and Policy: An Islamic Perspective
In the course “Governance and Policy: An Islamic Perspective,” students delve into the realm of governance and policy through an Islamic lens. The course provides a comprehensive exploration of the four pillars of public policy in Islam, namely the divine unity of unification (tawhid), higher objectives of the Shariʿah (maqasid), collective decision-making (shura), and rectification (islah). These foundational principles serve as guiding principles for public affairs at various levels. Throughout the course, students gain an understanding of how these pillars shape and influence governance and policy from an Islamic standpoint. They examine the role and performance of Muslims engaged in public life, drawing insights from the rich guidance found in the primary Islamic sources, the Qurʾan and the Sunnah, as well as relevant scholarship. The course employs an integrative, comprehensive, and dynamic methodology that blends academic analysis with policy relevance. In addition to exploring Islamic perspectives on governance and policy, students also engage in a comparative study of historical contexts, concepts, and debates surrounding global governance and public policy. This comparative approach offers valuable insights and broadens students' understanding of governance models beyond the Islamic framework. Throughout the course, emphasis is placed on active learning, encouraging students to actively participate and engage with the course materials. The combination of academic analysis and policy relevance ensures that students gain a well-rounded understanding of the subject matter and its practical implications. Overall, the course “Governance and Policy: An Islamic Perspective” provides students with a comprehensive and thought-provoking exploration of governance and policy through the lens of Islamic principles.
Learning Outcomes
Analyze and evaluate the four pillars of public policy in Islam: divine unity of unification (tawhid), higher objectives of the Shariʿah (maqasid), collective decision-making (shura), and rectification (islah).
Apply the principles of Islamic governance and policy to real-world scenarios and case studies and critically evaluate the role and performance of Muslims engaged in public life from an Islamic perspective.
Engage in independent research and analysis on Islamic governance and policy, demonstrating research skills and the ability to gather and evaluate relevant sources.
Develop written reports and essays that effectively communicate the principles and concepts of Islamic governance and policy.
Demonstrate oral communication skills through class discussions, presentations, and debates on topics related to Islamic governance and policy.
Examine and critically assess the historical contexts, concepts, and debates concerning global governance and public policy, comparing them to Islamic perspectives.
Evaluate the contemporary relevance and application of the four pillars of public policy in Islam: divine unity of unification (tawhid), higher objectives of the Shariʿah (maqasid), collective decision-making (shura), and rectification (islah) in addressing societal challenges.
Apply analytical and critical thinking skills to analyze and propose effective strategies for the implementation of Islamic governance and policy principles in various socio-political contexts.
Conduct independent research on specific issues related to Islamic governance and policy, demonstrating advanced research skills and the ability to synthesize and evaluate diverse sources of information.
Apply interpersonal and communication skills to cultivate positive relationships with diverse stakeholders.
Identify and reflect on the limits of knowledge in the field and explore the potential for improvement.