Muslim Identities

Abstract

The AMSS 35th Annual Conference, held from 27-29 October 2006 and cosponsored by Hartford Seminary’s Macdonald Center for the Study of Islam and Christian-Muslim Relations, analyzed “Muslim Identities: Shifting Boundaries and Dialogues.” Welcoming and introductory remarks were presented by Seminary President Dr. Heidi Hadsell, Program Chair Dr. Jane I. Smith (co-director, Macdonald Center for the Study of Islam and Christian-Muslim Relations), and AMSS President Dr. Rafik Beekun. Many regular participants mentioned how they look forward to the collegial atmosphere. In fact, as the majority of presenters were Ph.D. candidates, Program Chair Smith stated that “often at academic meetings like this one, younger scholars listen while the more experienced ones dominate the conversation. … This conference displayed a seriousness of interchange among the participants and an appreciation of the contributions of everyone.” Friday’s three panel sessions explored the engagement of Muslim discourses and institutions with democracy and political transitions in Iran, ...