The Development of the Thought of Sayyid Qutb as Reflected in Earlier and Later Editions of 'Social Justice in Islam'

Abstract

Through both his writings and his example as a martyr, the Egyptian activist and author Sayyid Qutb (d. 1966) has become one of the better known representatives of the more radical tendencies in the contemporary resurgence of Islam. His later writings have been described as a charter for Islamic revolution and a major inspiration for extremist groups such as one responsible for the assassination of Anwar al-Sadat in Egypt.1 Qutb came to his radical views relatively late in life, however, after having espoused more secularist views at an earlier stage. While considerable scholarly attention has been given to his later writings, relatively little attention has been given to his earlier writings and activities or to the transition from