Islamic Revolution and Globalization: from Theory to Practice

This research paper begins with explaining the concept of globalization, goes on to explain the three pessimistic, optimistic and evolutionary approaches and selects a third approach, a middle approach that considers globalization as a phenomenon. Illustrating the distinction between modernity and modernism, this paper argues that the Islamic Revolution is in opposition and contradiction with globalization that is believed to be continuation of modernism as an ideology. However, the Islamic Revolution is capable of establishing congruence and synergy with globalization, and conducting critical, affirmative and purposeful interaction with this phenomenon when it is regarded as continuation of modernity. In connection with Islamic Revolution’s approach to globalization, attempts have been made to analyze such approaches as “many globalizations” or “diversified globalizations” in the current “multi-centered world”, “asymmetric globalization”, “globalization from the middle” or the “horizontal globalization” and finally “reverse globalization” or decentralization from a hierarchical structure in a bid to present “alternative modernity” to picture an alternative world based on linking idealism to realism. To realize the aforementioned four approaches, this paper maintains that Islamic Revolution gives priority to civilizational studies and civilization building with an emphasis on affirmative and multi-layered identity. Adopting a civilizational approach to Islam and placing emphasis on “time management” and “change management”, the Islamic Revolution can realize civilizational Islam based on affirmative imaging. This primarily needs planning, futuristic approach, planning, networking, lobbying through campaigns, devising appropriate patterns and training manpower.