Toward an Unexhausting Protestant Ethic
I was just pondering some application of Weber's ideas. There's no necessity for "exhaustion" nor sectarianism. The goal of inner-worldly asceticism could be accomplished by other means. For example, a plain ole work ethic might do. One of the appeals of Islamist, other-worldly mysticism is the principle of least effort, a kind of non-participation, if you will, driven by hedonistic desires. In my mind, it was Parsons who had Weber down the best in this regard, not so much in reconciling hedonism with sociological peace, but in devising a system of action (adaptation) involving willful participation in community affairs. However, as Parsonian systems rely so heavily on pre-existant norms and roles, the problem comes back to conflict with customs and folkways (or maybe I've got this conflict stated wrong). I only have an undergraduate degree in anthropology. Can somebody fill me in on what conflict I'm doing so badly at describing?
this and other worldliness
I think we probably have to differentiate here between Islamists and Islamists.
There are those Islamists--al-takfir wa-l-hijra in Egypt in the 1980s being the most obvious example, but including many AQ elements--for whom separation from society, and other-wordly rewards, are of importance.
However, the vast bulk of Islamists--including not only Muslim Brotherhood non-violent types, but also (say) armed groups like Hamas and Hizbullah—are deeply engaged in their societies, at all levels. They are, to borrow Putnam, certainly not "bowling alone." Indeed, much of their broader popular appeal is due to their perceived social commitment and "work ethic."
You guys may be doing the talking
but there are plenty of us who benefit by listening in:D - Its kind of like science C-Span - you learn allot, but don't have to say much.
Best Regards, and Thanks, Rob