Islamic Politics in Pakistan from 1956 Till Present Essays

Islamic Politics in Pakistan from 1956 Till Present Essays Islamic Politics in Pakistan from 1956 Till Present Essay Islamic Politics in Pakistan from 1956 Till Present Essay Islamic Politics in Pakistan from 1956 Till Present Name: Institution: Islamic Politics in Pakistan from 1956 Till Present Thesis statement This paper will examine the extent that Islamism has been involved in politics, in regions where Islam is the main religion, by focusing on the politics in Pakistan from 1956 to the present. Methodology This research will examine various scholarly sources and different textbooks, showing the history of Pakistan, and the history of Islam in the country. The sources will be from both Pakistan and western scholars, in order to create a more objective view. The paper will begin by noting the connection between religion and politics over the years. It will examine the influence of Islam since it was formed. It will then describe the importance of religion in Islamic politics and democracy. It is important to describe some of the terms used in the paper to enhance the reader’s understanding and to clarify any misunderstanding. The scope of the research begins from 1956, since this was when the country enacted the constitution based on Islamic principles. The sources will highlight the struggles that Pakistan had when fighting for independence from the British, until their final realization of independence, which enabled them to have a constitution. The sources will highlight the initial conflict of integrating Islam in politics. It will note the struggle the country has had in implementing the sharia law, in a country where many people crave to heave democracy. The sources will describe the beginnings of democracy, showing the successes and failure of democracy over the years. The paper will highlight the definition and meaning of democracy from different perspectives. It will examine the definition of democracy from a western perspective and contrast it with the Islamic and Pakistani definitions and meanings of democracy. This is important in emphasizing and addressing the differences in politics between different groups in the region. The western definition of democracy does not consider the religious supremacy that is claimed in the Islamic definition. The western perspective of democracy emphasizes equality of all citizens irrespective of their race, ethnicity, and religion. The Islamic perspective of democracy emphasizes the freedom to practice the Islamic religion, part of which is exercising the sharia law. This perspective emphasizes submitting to God’s will from an Islamic perspective, and this will is above the human laws. The Pakistanis have different perspectives of democracy, with some recognizing it as a return to civilian government. Although they recognize the idea of holding free and fair elections as part of the fundamental concepts of democracy, they only recognize a few people who are entitled to lead. The research will highlight the current perception of people concerning the Islamic influence in government. This is because there are some differences in the way Muslims consider the integration of their religion with politics. From the various definitions of democracy that people have in their country, it is clear that some difference exist in the way some Muslims consider the importance of their religion in politics. The research will highlight some of the challenges facing the country, as these problems are a threat to democracy. Conclusion The paper will conclude by summarizing the main points. This will include the country’s history, the importance of Islam in the country, the integration of religion in politics, and the meaning of democracy to the people in Pakistan. It will finalize by emphasizing the main threats facing democracy in the country. The study of democracy is relevant since it is a major part of politics in Pakistan. It is also important to have a thorough understanding of the differing perceptions of democracy, to understand why the country has a hard time implementing democracy.