In this remarkable collection of talks given over the past five years, the Aga Khan surveys the modern world and sets out the principles that inform his vision for change. Again and again, he returns to three cornerstones: democracy, pluralism, and civil society. Democracy, he writes, is always fragile, requiring nurturing in ways that are practical and flexible. Pluralism In this remarkable collection of talks given over the past five years, the Aga Khan surveys the modern world and sets out the principles that inform his vision for change. Again and again, he returns to three cornerstones: democracy, pluralism, and civil society. Democracy, he writes, is always fragile, requiring nurturing in ways that are practical and flexible. Pluralism must be embraced so that it exists in both fact and spirit. And a diverse and engaged civil society, which he broadly defines as including doctors' and journalists' associations, women's groups, social movements, and trade unions, must be supported in countries around the globe. In a world too often divided along economic, political, ethnic, and religious lines, the Aga Khan's words are welcome, going right to the heart of the most difficult challenges the world faces today. Eloquent, inspiring, and deeply challenging, they express hope and conviction that profound change is possible.
Where Hope Takes Root: Democracy and Pluralism in an Interdependent World
In this remarkable collection of talks given over the past five years, the Aga Khan surveys the modern world and sets out the principles that inform his vision for change. Again and again, he returns to three cornerstones: democracy, pluralism, and civil society. Democracy, he writes, is always fragile, requiring nurturing in ways that are practical and flexible. Pluralism In this remarkable collection of talks given over the past five years, the Aga Khan surveys the modern world and sets out the principles that inform his vision for change. Again and again, he returns to three cornerstones: democracy, pluralism, and civil society. Democracy, he writes, is always fragile, requiring nurturing in ways that are practical and flexible. Pluralism must be embraced so that it exists in both fact and spirit. And a diverse and engaged civil society, which he broadly defines as including doctors' and journalists' associations, women's groups, social movements, and trade unions, must be supported in countries around the globe. In a world too often divided along economic, political, ethnic, and religious lines, the Aga Khan's words are welcome, going right to the heart of the most difficult challenges the world faces today. Eloquent, inspiring, and deeply challenging, they express hope and conviction that profound change is possible.
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Michelle –
I had the honour to borrow this book from an Ismaili Muslim and am very grateful that I had that opportunity as this book was engaging, thought-provoking and inspiring! His Highness the Aga Khan makes eloquent references time and time again about the "clash of ignorance" and strongly believes in democracy and the democratic process, especially when all parties are participatory. He believes in civil society and most importantly, working within a culture of pluralism. In fact, celebrating pluralis I had the honour to borrow this book from an Ismaili Muslim and am very grateful that I had that opportunity as this book was engaging, thought-provoking and inspiring! His Highness the Aga Khan makes eloquent references time and time again about the "clash of ignorance" and strongly believes in democracy and the democratic process, especially when all parties are participatory. He believes in civil society and most importantly, working within a culture of pluralism. In fact, celebrating pluralism, nurturing it and preserving it is something that he strongly believes is the only way that we can realistically work towards world peace. He states how education plays a role in this process and believes that the Western education system should incorporate teaching of Islam in order to bridge the gap, the "ignorance" of our understandings. Frankly, it's a strong argument given how many people globally practice some form of Islam. . His Highness the Aga Khan provides historical insight and is very clear with his thoughts in each of the various lectures and speeches compiled in this book. He truly has a deep understanding of global politics, development and the challenges that create roadblocks to peace. I think many, many more people need to acquaint themselves with his work and his vision so that way we can move forward positively, and with hope.
Sheila –
I have read several speeches of His Highness and found that I had previously read many that were compiled in this book. However, what was so interesting to me was the consistent messaging surrounding the necessary components for a successful civilization: pluralism, democratic process, and civil society. He defines and explains what he means by each and also defines his role as the Imam of the Shia Ismaili Muslims and his work within the AKDN. It was also very interesting to note the way in whic I have read several speeches of His Highness and found that I had previously read many that were compiled in this book. However, what was so interesting to me was the consistent messaging surrounding the necessary components for a successful civilization: pluralism, democratic process, and civil society. He defines and explains what he means by each and also defines his role as the Imam of the Shia Ismaili Muslims and his work within the AKDN. It was also very interesting to note the way in which he makes these same messages relevant in the various contexts in which he is invited to speak- whether it be a convocation in Canada or Pakistan, a ceremony where he is accepting an award, an interview, etc. He finds ways to make his ideas on development relevant to new graduates and to top leaders if important fields in countries of the East and West. His Highness' speeches left me inspired as always and sparked many ideas on how to teach development as an ethic of Islam to students. An engaging, inspiring, and thought provoking read.
Saba –
Great Resource for MSC volume 2
Yasin –
Very good book about Imam Ali and the spiritual inner meaning behind his massage.Imam Ali is the master of all Sufi paths in Islam.
Ahmad –
A must read for everyone.
Mallee Stanley –
Inspiring and an easy quick read though definitely some pondering to do.
Nilofar –
Yohan Kim –
Joan Porter –
A –
Ali –
Sheliza –
Alnasir Rajan –
Alisha –
Salima –
Jenna –
민정 –
Faraz Oman –
Ishan Daya –
Prathyusha –
Aly Sultan –
Rahil Jafry –
Haffiz.hsgmail.com –
Shan –
Faraz –
Fionna Chisholm –
Salman Rajput –
Moshinkarovalia –
Chloe –
Ali Bandeali –