Neo-Orientalism, Islam and Extremism

Abstract

States and societies worldwide have been facing the real and perceived threats of Islamic extremism and terrorism associated with the rise of such non-state actors, organizations and movements as the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS), Al-Qaida, Al-Shabaab, and the Taliban, among others. The potential threats of growing Islamism, radicalization and extremism in Central Asia has also become a popular discourse in international media, policy circles and academia in both the East and the West. This Thesis analyzes the views, perceptions and portrayal of Islam and extremism in Central Asia by Western scholars and think tanks, Central Asian researchers, and at least one of the region’s governments. The Thesis studies the applicability and relevance of the phenomena of “neo-Orientalism” as affecting research on Central Asia and Islam, with a focus on the case of Kyrgyzstan. It also examines the reports of the International Crisis Group (ICG) and opinions of Western and local academics on the subject matter. The Thesis concludes that the perspectives on Islam and religious extremism are often tinged with what can be described as preconceived subjective notions, lacking sufficient logic and empiricism and can be categorized as being influenced by the phenomenon of neo-Orientalism. However, this Thesis shows that there are other beliefs and factors that may cause improper portrayal of the subject in the region.