This book has been written to outline the worldview, practices and history of Islam, to help non-Muslims understand their Muslim friends and neighbours better. Topics covered include the Islamic sacred books and articles of faith, the key religious observances, and the differences to be found among Muslims. The story of Islam is traced from its beginnings in the 7th century to the present. Non-Muslims who read this book will gain an understanding of why Muslims think and act as they do.

In this ground-breaking Australian book, a diverse group of international writers, scholars and commentators shed light on some of the most pressing human rights and public policy challenges of our time. Contributors include thinkers of Muslim background with extensive personal experience in developing countries, and Western writers of both secular and religious orientation. Individual essays deal with the human rights of Muslims and non-Muslims alike, in areas ranging from women's rights ...