Neopatriarchy (a Theory Of Distorted Change In Arab Society)

By (author) Sharabi Hisham
Short description/annotation
`This deeply courageous, independent-minded analysis of fundamental political, socialn and cultural issues offers us a brilliantly revealing understanding of why change has been hindered and warped in Arab society. Hisham Sharabi moves us to new and essential insights.'' Manfred Halpern, Princeton University
Description
Sharabi argues that the historical patriarchal authority structure of the Middle East has not succumbed to modernization and disappeared or even been fundamentally revised. Instead it lives on as neopatriarchy: an inherited patriarchal authority which manifests itself at the level of the state and the family in the form of modernity, while retaining the essence of patriarchy in family, clan, and religion. At the heart of the problem is a petty-bourgeois élite that has frozen further political and social development by frustrating the emergence of a full-blown bourgeois class or an empowered proletariat. Disquieting forces such as sexism and fundamentalism become the end result of the overall societal stagnation.
Review quote
''brief but impressively rich and thought-provoking book ... The book is a valuable reference for students of the Middle East. With greater theoretical refinements, it could serve as a solid source for developmental studies.'' Mehran Tamadonfar, University of Nevada, International Journal of Middle East Studies, Vol. 26:1
Review quote: previous edition
"An important statement about Arab society and politics that is required reading for anyone concerned with grasping the overall character of Arab politics and society....An original, fascinating, opinionated (a positive term), provocative and perceptive book....It is an essay rich in concepts, theses and theories that deserves careful study and thoughtful response."--American-Arab Affairs "A profoundly interesting book."--Middle East Journal "Sharabi''s book constitutes a landmark in Arab thought. He challenges some of the most widely held and deeply cherished beliefs and attacks some of the most influential movements."--Charles Issawi, Princeton University "Important, and even profound."--American Historical Review "A courageous and insightful treatment of the Arab predicament and makes for compelling reading."--The Muslim World "An important statement about Arab society and politics that is required reading for anyone concerned with grasping the overall character of Arab politics and society....An original, fascinating, opinionated (a positive term), provocative and perceptive book....It is an essay rich in concepts, theses and theories that deserves careful study and thoughtful response."--American-Arab Affairs "A profoundly interesting book."--Middle East Journal "Sharabi''s book constitutes a landmark in Arab thought. He challenges some of the most widely held and deeply cherished beliefs and attacks some of the most influential movements."--Charles Issawi, Princeton University "Important, and even profound."--American Historical Review "A courageous and insightful treatment of the Arab predicament and makes for compelling reading."--The Muslim World "Sharabi addresses issues we are all part of and must be concerned about. This struggle over ''realities'' cannot be resolved until there is an intellectual interchange between the dominant West and the dominated periphery. I would like to see people like Sharabi, who are familiar with both worlds...contribute to [Western] self-understanding."--Contemporary Sociology "A fresh and brave approach to Middle-Eastern studies. The sharpness and clarity of the critical arguments are much needed skills in this burgeoning field. Highly recommended."--Esther Fuchs, University of Arizona "A work of courage and deep intelligence."--Hubert Mason, Boston University