Short Summary: What are the links between Islam, feminism and modernity? In the Middle East, the changes in socialisation and political awareness of women themselves have not been accompanied by a change in gender roles, family structures and the law. This paper comes from the perspective that women are not only affected by change but are themselves its agents. It describes how Islamic Feminism has provided a feminist reinterpretation of Islamic texts together with an alternative view of modernity from that presented by Western feminism. The paper identifies three broad concerns with regard to the term ‘Islamic Feminism’. Firstly it points to the implication that Islamic Feminism must be directly engaged in interpretation of the Quran, and notes that this may exclude other research and analysis. Secondly it warns of negative repercussions that may arise as a result of the attention given to the concept by Western feminists and journalists. Thirdly it indicates that Islam is neither the sole cause, nor the sole solution of women’s subordination and yet the term ‘Islamic Feminism' foregrounds Islam as the primary identifying factor in the region and one whose affects are unified throughout. The paper concludes by calling for the contextulisation of feminist claims and the need for dialogue and flexibility within and between feminisms. For copies of this publication, please contact AMEWS, e-mail: aj2043@columbia.edu, mailing address: AMEWS C/O Amaney Jamal, Dept. of Political Science, 1111 International Affairs building, Columbia University, New York, New York 10027