Islamic Identity Conflict: The Symbiotic Sectarianism of Sunni and Shia as Seen through Hofstede’s Cultural Dimensions
Abstract:
The divide between Sunni and Shia Muslims is rooted in divergent opinions about the succession of Islamic leadership, how some parts of the Qur’an are to be interpreted, and different understandings of how to be a Muslim. These differences are magnified in a long-standing and intense struggle among nations and ethnic groups for political power in the Middle East and beyond. Although most Muslims reject sectarianism, some have debased Sunni and Shia identities to justify their pursuit of power and influence. This article employs four of Geert Hofstede’s cultural dimensions to better understand the social and political aspects of the sectarian divide between Sunni and Shia Muslims: (1) exclusion in an inclusive culture; (2) uncertainty avoidance; (3) short-term orientation; and (4) power distance.
Read or download full paper:
Journal of Living Together, 4-5 (1), pp. 1-12, 2018, ISSN: 2373-6615 (Print); 2373-6631 (Online).
@Article{Trueman2018
Title = {Islamic Identity Conflict: The Symbiotic Sectarianism of Sunni and Shia as Seen through Hofstede’s Cultural Dimensions}
Author = {Jeffrey A. Trueman}
Url = {https://icermediation.org/islamic-identity-conflict-of-sunni-and-shia/}
ISSN = {2373-6615 (Print); 2373-6631 (Online)}
Year = {2018}
Date = {2018-12-18}
IssueTitle = {Living Together in Peace and Harmony}
Journal = {Journal of Living Together}
Volume = {4-5}
Number = {1}
Pages = {1-12}
Publisher = {International Center for Ethno-Religious Mediation}
Address = {Mount Vernon, New York}
Edition = {2018}.