Good Muslim, Bad Muslim by Mahmood Mamdani

Description

“Good Muslim, Bad Muslim: America, the Cold War, and the Roots of Terror” is a book written by Mahmood Mamdani, a Ugandan-born political scientist and professor known for his work on African and global politics, as well as issues related to identity, religion, and conflict. The book was published in 2004 and is a critical examination of the post-Cold War world, particularly focusing on the intersection of global politics, Islam, and terrorism.

In “Good Muslim, Bad Muslim,” Mamdani critiques the simplistic and problematic categorization of Muslims into binary categories of “good” and “bad.” He argues that this distinction is not only overly simplistic but also a result of global political forces and the legacy of the Cold War. Mamdani specifically delves into the role of U.S. foreign policy, especially in relation to Afghanistan and the Middle East, and how it contributed to the rise of extremist movements.

The book challenges prevailing stereotypes and assumptions about Muslims and Islam and examines how these stereotypes have been exploited in the post-9/11 world to justify military interventions, surveillance, and other policies.

Mahmood Mamdani’s work in “Good Muslim, Bad Muslim” is a thoughtful and critical analysis of the complex dynamics between religion, politics, and global conflict. It encourages readers to question and reevaluate their understanding of the Muslim world, terrorism, and the broader implications of U.S. foreign policy in the post-Cold War era. The book has been influential in academic and policy discussions on these topics.