Nurlykhan Aljanova Leads Thought-Provoking Session on Islam in Contemporary Contexts at CESS Conference

On June 9, at the CESS Annual Conference, Nurlykhan Aljanova moderated an enlightening session titled "Adjusting to Postnormal Times: Islam as a Spiritual, Cultural, Social, and Political Phenomenon in Central Asia and Beyond." This session delved into the multifaceted ways Islam adapts to the complexities of a rapidly evolving global landscape, often referred to as postnormal times (PNT).

The discussion introduced the academic community to the concept of PNT, emphasizing the cultural dimensions of Islam and exploring its role in shaping contemporary Muslim identities and social practices. Topics of focus included how digital transformations are reshaping the religious practices and daily lives of believers, the influence of Islamic education on the formation of new Muslim identities, values, and consciences during these transformative times, and how digital platforms foster Islamic discourse, with a special look at developments in Uzbekistan. The session also examined how contemporary Kazakhstani art reflects and transforms traditional Islamic themes under the pressures of PNT.

This session offered fresh insights into how Islam interacts with modern challenges and technologies, pushing the boundaries of conventional discussions about the religion. It provided a platform for exploring emerging issues and current trends that affect the Muslim community in Central Asia and globally, encouraging a broader and more nuanced understanding of Islam’s role in today’s world.