Currently, many people seem to be preoccupied with creating or discussing conspiracy theories. At the same time, others discredit unwelcome inquiries into hidden political agendas by labelling the... Show moreCurrently, many people seem to be preoccupied with creating or discussing conspiracy theories. At the same time, others discredit unwelcome inquiries into hidden political agendas by labelling the resulting ideas “conspiracy theories.” In such an environment, the distinction between fantasy and critical thought tends to become blurred. Only by acknowledging that real conspiracies exist, and by refuting ideas that cannot be empirically staved, will we be able to analyse political situations in a manner that is neither politically naïve nor the product of a conspiracist mindset. Show less
The veritable driving force behind the start-up phase of the ISIM, Wim Stokhof guided the institute as director in charge for almost two years, until shortly after the appointment of Khalid Masud... Show moreThe veritable driving force behind the start-up phase of the ISIM, Wim Stokhof guided the institute as director in charge for almost two years, until shortly after the appointment of Khalid Masud as the ISIM academic director in May 1999. Show less
Professor Muhammad Khalid Masud has recently been named Academic Director of the ISIM for three years. He succeeds Professor Wim Stokhof who, as Director in Charge, laid the foundations of the... Show moreProfessor Muhammad Khalid Masud has recently been named Academic Director of the ISIM for three years. He succeeds Professor Wim Stokhof who, as Director in Charge, laid the foundations of the Institute and led the search for an Academic Director. We will miss the distinctive presence of Wim Stokhof, but we are delighted with the arrival of Muhammad Masud at the ISIM. Masud joins the ISIM from the Islamic Research Institute (IRI), International Islamic University, Islamabad, Pakistan, where he was professor and head of the Islamic Law and Jurisprudence Unit. Show less
