Demanding deliberation: political liberalism and the inclusion of Islam

Abstract

This article considers the extent to which principles of political liberalism are compatible with the commitments of Islam, especially with respect to Muslim citizens dwelling in pluralistic liberal democracies. It first articulates three cardinal principles of liberty of conscience, explaining their importance and relevance for adjudicating on difficult political and religious problems in the contemporary world. The case then turns to issues of democratic citizenship, focusing on the demands of democratic deliberation in particular. It investigates the compatibility of Islam with desirable deliberative procedures and ends, and considers the potential of Muslim minorities to ameliorate some of the deepest, most pressing challenges to liberalism and the legitimacy of liberal democracy. It argues that Muslims have special capacities to enliven the promise of democratic polities, especially when their efforts are joined with those of more liberal, non‐Muslim citizens, and that principles of liberty of conscience can assist to bring devotees of Islam and other citizens to affirm liberal governance, on grounds they should accept.

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