Capitalism versus Islam: The political implications of free market reforms in Egypt, 1987--1999 (Ph.D. Dissertation)

This dissertation evaluates the political effects of the increasing incorporation of capitalist economic polices into the Egyptian economy, and their compatibility with Islamic culture. This study assesses some of the potential political outcomes of implementing IMF programs and developing a free-market economy. When viewed through the framework Gramsci's works, Egypt will not achieve political stability through capitalism, primarily due to the weak nature of Egyptian civil society. Furthermore, all of these elements, when combined with strengthening religious factors, could lead to the growth of Islamic fundamentalist political movements.