Islam and the Future of Tolerance: A Dialogue

In this slim volume, Harris (The End of Faith) and Nawaz (Radical) enter into a respectful exchange of ideas on Islam and its place in the world from perspectives of secularism and reform. Harris, maintaining his provocative persona, asks questions and tosses ultimatums in the direction of Nawaz, who deftly replies with well-reasoned and thoughtful responses that will inform and inspire. The book's brevity is refreshing in a genre too-often categorized by dense tomes. While Harris may direct the conversation, Nawaz is the one who gives it shape and provides the nuanced analysis that makes this book a worthwhile read on the state of Islam and religious tolerance in the world today. However, even more nuance would be welcome with regard to the many forms of Islamism, including those that support human rights and pluralism; some of Harris's critiques deserve more unpacking and less bombast. Those interested in a deferential and detailed dialogue about human rights, Islam, jihadism, and pluralism will find this book both enlightening and engaging. (Oct.)