Simon Ross Valentine is a freelance British lecturer and researcher into Islam and comparative religions who has taught part-time at Leeds University and Bradford University. His Islam and the Ahmadiyya Jama'at: History, Belief, Practice was published by Hurst in 2008.
'Dr Valentine has written an arresting study that combines the
curiosity of the travel writer, the tenacity of a good journalist,
and the rigour of the academic ... provides not only an exhaustive
account of Wahhabism's founder, history and spread, doctrines, and
practices, but also communicates something of the texture of its
lived reality.'
*Church Times*
'Valentine, a British Methodist pastor and teacher who taught in
Saudi Arabia, has written a useful book about the desert kingdom
... The author explores important topics, including the mutawwa, or
religious police, and provides useful historical context,
discussing the origins of "Wahhabism," its alliance with the House
of Saud, and the oil discoveries that changed everything.'
*The Jewish Voice*
'A thoughtful and comprehensive overview of Wahhabi Islam and its
influence on public life in Saudi Arabia. The author's mix of
analyses and anecdotes makes for an interesting and easy read ...
Partly a travelogue, Force and Fanaticism also gives powerful
impressions of life in the Kingdom, especially among ordinary
people.'
*Middle East Journal*
Admirable and comprehensive. Simon Valentine lived and worked in
Saudi Arabia for three years and devoted much time and energy to
mastering Wahhabi literature. He provides and invaluable guide to
this history, beliefs and practices of Wahhabism. Erudite and well
researched, this book -- both informative and controversial --
offers much food for thought, and self-critical reflection for
Muslims and non-Muslims alike.'
*Ziauddin Sardar, author of Mecca: The Sacred City*
'A very useful primer on the religious and philosophical thought
behind the Saudi regime which achieves a skilful blend of scholarly
writing and colourful travelogue. Fascinating.'
*Christopher Davidson, author of After the Sheikhs: The Coming
Collapse of the Gulf Monarchies*
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