Faisal Devji argues that new forms of militancy, such as the actions of al-Qaeda, are informed by the same desire for agency and equality that animates other humanitarian interventions, such as environmentalism and pacifism. To the militant, victimized Muslims are more than just symbols of ethnic and religious persecution--they represent humanity's centuries-long struggle for legitimacy and agency. Acts of terror, therefore, are fueled by the militant's desire to become a historical actor on the global stage. Though they have yet to build concrete political institutions, militant movements have formed a kind of global society, and as Devji makes clear, this society pursues the same humanitarian objectives that drive more benevolent groups.
- ISBN10 0231700601
- ISBN13 9780231700603
- Publish Date 1 February 2009 (first published 1 September 2008)
- Publish Status Temporarily Withdrawn
- Out of Print 3 April 2013
- Publish Country US
- Imprint Columbia University Press
- Format Hardcover
- Pages 224
- Language English