Tribes Sects and Elites
Sociological Foundations of Muslim States from
Historical Origins to the Present
This study examines the formation, development, and transformation
of Muslim states from the emergence of Islam to the present through the
perspective of historical sociology. The primary objective is to analyze
Muslim states not merely through political events, dynastic changes, or
military achievements, but within the broader framework of social dynamics
that shaped their emergence and continuity. In this regard, the
study investigates state–society relations through dimensions such as
tribal solidarity, sectarian affiliations, religious legitimacy, ruling elites,
bureaucratic structures, and social organization.
The research adopts a historical sociological methodology by integrating
classical historical sources, political thought literature, and contemporary
sociological approaches. In particular, Ibn Khaldun’s theory
of asabiyyah serves as one of the principal analytical frameworks for
explaining the formation and transformation of Muslim states. In addition,
Weberian authority typologies, social contract theories, modern
state theories, and contemporary sociological approaches concerning
Middle Eastern societies constitute the theoretical foundation of the
study.
Beginning with the Medina city-state, the research analyzes major historical
cases including the Rashidun Caliphate, Umayyads, Abbasids,
Seljuks, Ottomans, Safavids, and Mughals, before extending the discussion
to modernization processes and nation-state experiences. Furthermore,
the study comparatively evaluates the impact of tribal structures,
sectarian identities, and governing elites on contemporary Middle Eastern
political systems. Ultimately, the study argues that the history of
Muslim states should be understood as a dynamic process shaped not
only by political developments but also by the underlying social structures
that sustain and transform political authority.
Keywords: Asabiyyah; Historical Sociology; Muslim States; State–Society
Relations; Tribe and Sect