| This thesis examines the position and rights of women within contemporary Islamic society. It provides consideration of the sources of Islamic Law, the Qur'an and Hadith, and what is said specifically on the topic of women. It examines also the issues of human rights, focusing on certain rights abuses to which women are subjected in particular, and it considers the positions of many prominent Islamic thinkers regarding women's rights. The status of women is considered closely within a case study of Iran, which focuses on both the secular regime of the Shah and the Islamic Republic of the Ayatollah Khomeini. The interpretation of Islamic ideals and their application and impact are considered. In the end, conclusions are drawn about the effect of Islam on the position and rights of women within Islamic society, and how its impact has been and continues to be felt in their daily lives. |
