Islam is one of the most rapidly growing religions in the world. Islamic fundamentalism is one of its most forceful manifestations―and one of its least understood. This lack of understanding, combined with recent terrorist attacks, often leads to fear of Islamic fundamentalism in the West. Davidson offers a clearer picture of Islamic fundamentalism by explaining its history, identifying its adherents throughout history, and analyzing what the fundamentalists believe and what they want.

A mixture of essays, biographical portraits, and primary documents provides an invaluable examination of this religious, cultural, and political phenomenon. This revision of the acclaimed first edition features fully updated information, as well as a new chapter examining the causes and effects of terrorism. A historical overview precedes essays on The Society of Muslim Brothers, the Iranian revolution and government, the Saudi government, Western perceptions of Islam, and issues of violence and terrorism. A section of biographies follows, including new portraits of Osama bin Laden and Iranian president Khatami. Primary documents include passages from the Quran and various reactions to the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks in the United States. The volume concludes with an annotated bibliography of print, electronic, and video resources.