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The rapid growth of Muslim populations in Western countries has spurned much discussion and debate about the role of religious law in secular systems. The Archbishop of Canterbury, Dr. Rowan Williams, suggested in a 2008 speech that the shari'ah may very well have to be accommodated in the United Kingdom. This controversial comment, along with the firestorm of criticism that ensued, served as the inspiration for this speech by Muneer Fareed about the prospect of shari'ah in the West. Dr. Fareed seeks to sort out the many complicated issues involved in this relevant and contentious topic. What exactly is the shari'ah and how is it commonly misunderstood? What aspects of shari'ah are already being implemented in the West? Is shari'ah compatible with religious plurality? And how does the average person deal with the issue of radicalization of the shari'ah by some Muslims. A highly intellectual and thought-provoking lecture that analyzes Islamic law within the context of the ever-expanding global village and the implications it may have on the existing social structure. Other topics discussed: freedom within the shari'ah, Islamic law regarding women and homosexuals, ignoring context when comparing women's rights, and the prospect of shari'ah as a benefit to American society. (Duration: 1 hour, 11 min)

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