The International Institute of Islamic Thought
The International Institute of Islamic Thought (IIIT) is a prominent non-profit organization established in 1981, headquartered in Herndon, Virginia, USA. It serves as a platform for Muslim thinkers, scholars, and practitioners, focusing on the humanities and social sciences. IIIT aims to promote a modern and diverse interpretation of Islamic thought while addressing contemporary challenges faced by Muslim societies globally.
Mission and Vision
- Vision: IIIT envisions thriving societies where individuals can realize their full potential through transformative learning and social development.
- Mission: The institute's mission is to conduct and disseminate educational research that empowers Muslim societies with data-driven recommendations for transformative educational policies and practices[1].
Goals and Objectives
IIIT has several key goals[2]:
- Conduct Evidence-Based Research: Focus on advancing education in Muslim societies.
- Disseminate Research: Through publications, translations, teaching, and policy recommendations.
- Explore Educational Issues: Address the intersection of policy, pedagogy, curricula, governance, and impact evaluation.
- Renew Islamic Thought: Theoretically research to rejuvenate the role of Islamic thought in education[3].
Historical Context
Founded by prominent figures such as Ismail al-Faruqi and Anwar Ibrahim, IIIT emerged as a response to the need for a structured approach to Islamic scholarship that aligns with contemporary realities. The institute has positioned itself as a leader in the revival and reform of Islamic thought, aiming to bridge traditional Islamic teachings with modern academic discourse[4][5].
Activities and Contributions
IIIT engages in various activities that include[6]:
- Research and Publications: Producing scholarly works that contribute to the understanding of Islamic thought.
- Conferences and Workshops: Organizing events that foster dialogue among scholars from diverse backgrounds.
- Educational Initiatives: Running programs like The Fairfax Institute (TFI), which focuses on educational development within an Islamic framework[7].
The institute also emphasizes the importance of interfaith dialogue and social justice, aiming to dismantle stereotypes associated with Islam while promoting coexistence among different communities[8].
Global Reach
With branches in various countries, IIIT operates as a global think tank. Its influence extends beyond the United States, engaging with scholars worldwide to address pressing issues related to Islamic thought and its application in contemporary society. The London office, established in 1987, plays a significant role in producing English-language publications and organizing events across Europe[9].
Conclusion
The International Institute of Islamic Thought stands out as a vital institution dedicated to the intellectual revival of Islam. By fostering research, promoting educational initiatives, and facilitating scholarly dialogue, IIIT aims to empower Muslim societies while contributing positively to global discourse on Islam. Its commitment to modernity, diversity, and coexistence reflects its pivotal role in shaping contemporary Islamic thought.
References
- ↑ The International Institute of Islamic Thought, London Office, UK website, “About Us.” IIIT, https://iiit.org/en/about-us/. Accessed 10 Dec. 2024.
- ↑ “International Institute of Islamic Thought.” Wikipedia, 4 Dec. 2024. Wikipedia, https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=International_Institute_of_Islamic_Thought&oldid=1261137738.
- ↑ The International Institute of Islamic Thought, London Office, UK website, “About Us.” IIIT, https://iiit.org/en/about-us/. Accessed 10 Dec. 2024.
- ↑ “International Institute of Islamic Thought.” Wikipedia, 4 Dec. 2024. Wikipedia, https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=International_Institute_of_Islamic_Thought&oldid=1261137738.
- ↑ Spannaus, Nathan. “From ‘Islamization of Knowledge’ to ‘American Islam’: The International Institute of Islamic Thought (IIIT).” Modern Islamic Authority and Social Change, Volume 2: Evolving Debates in the West, edited by Masooda Bano, Edinburgh University Press, 2018, pp. 97–122. Cambridge University Press, https://www.cambridge.org/core/books/modern-islamic-authority-and-social-change-volume-2/from-islamization-of-knowledge-to-american-islam-the-international-institute-of-islamic-thought-iiit/BED62A8D76446BC7A886DBC4B5C2DBD7.
- ↑ The International Institute of Islamic Thought, London Office, UK website, “Home.” IIIT, https://iiit.org/en/home/. Accessed 10 Dec. 2024.
- ↑ Spannaus, Nathan. “From ‘Islamization of Knowledge’ to ‘American Islam’: The International Institute of Islamic Thought (IIIT).” Modern Islamic Authority and Social Change, Volume 2: Evolving Debates in the West, edited by Masooda Bano, Edinburgh University Press, 2018, pp. 97–122. Cambridge University Press, https://www.cambridge.org/core/books/modern-islamic-authority-and-social-change-volume-2/from-islamization-of-knowledge-to-american-islam-the-international-institute-of-islamic-thought-iiit/BED62A8D76446BC7A886DBC4B5C2DBD7.
- ↑ International Institute of Islamic Thought (IIIT). https://www2.naz.edu/international-institute-islamic-thought-iiit/www2.naz.edu/international-institute-islamic-thought-iiit/. Accessed 10 Dec. 2024.
- ↑ “International Institute of Islamic Thought.” Wikipedia, 4 Dec. 2024. Wikipedia, https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=International_Institute_of_Islamic_Thought&oldid=1261137738.