The Integration of Philosophy, Politics and Conservative Islam in the Thought of Muhammad Iqbal (1877-1938): The Restoration of Muslim Dignity Against the Tide of Westernization

This study is an interdisciplinary history of ideas approach to Iqbal's prescription for the restoration of Muslim dignity: the Perfect Man. It discusses Iqbal's contributions to philosophy, poetic art, and how he integrated his conservative Muslim faith with his political ideals. Known as the 'Spiritual Father' of Pakistan, Muhammad Iqbal lived at multiple human crossroads: of history as British colonial power waned in India, of the human relationship with technology during the crisis of Modernism, and of the awakening of political Islam to its cultural conflict with the West. Iqbal perceived an attack on the human dignity of Muslims due to the world-wide influence of Western culture, specifically through the ubiquitous presence of British imperialism. More than seventy years after his death, Muhammad Iqbal continues to exert a significant influence on today's world. Dr. Nix, writing from a Western perspective, makes a timely contribution to the growing body of literature on this important figure.