The Extent of Linkage of Orientalism to Religious Studies and its Impact on the Western Mentality Towards Islam

Abstract

This paper deals with studies related to the comparison of religions in the Orientalism field which has significantly developed since the nineteenth century A.D and coincided with dominating of the colonized countries by the colonial west. This required an in-depth understanding of the mentality of the peoples of these countries. Therefore, the field of studies of religions was used for these purposes. However, the methods which were used were not based on a scientific basis in the field of the study of religions. This has led to a reduction of religion in materialistic matters and political issues, distinguishing it from the basic aspect of faith. This is what has often been done in the studies of religions by western academic institutions, especially when it comes to Islam, in the service of the politicians and influencing groups.   

The paper also focuses on the practical issues related to orientalism and religious studies, most notably those related to the Islamic curriculum in the educational institutions in the West, economics in Islam, the family system in Islam, as well as the extent of coexistence of Muslims and others. This paper objectively discusses such allegations based on fair and moderate opinions and ideas.