Nations since the dawn of time have always faced the problem of reconciling religious belief with economic prosperity. Although this problem is not unique to Islam, it is particularly acute to Muslim populations because it is a comprehensive system for living that encompasses both institutional and individual realms. IN a time where the internet, industrialization, and technology have made it virtually impossible for any state to remain isolationist and economically viable, many struggling third world countries have grappled with the question of how to maintain their individual identities through tradition and value, and successfully compete in the global market.

For the purposes of this paper, I have chosen two modern Islamic thinkers who have attempted to reconcile their religious and national identities in a global framework. Abdul-Karim Sorush of Iran, and Hassan Hanafi of Egypt have been successful leaders in this movement in their respective countries. Both have...