They have been labelled anti-modern , radicals , terrorists , and even women oppressors , but is this really the case? Are Islamist parties and Al Qaida two sides of the same coin? By using a social democratic/Rawlsian framework, this book provides a nuanced, accurate, and refreshing perspective on these parties. Hezbollah and the Egyptian branch of the Muslim Brotherhood are compared on their adherence to democracy, their promotion of women s rights, and the religious tolerance practiced by them amongst others. This is all the more important in light of the Arab Spring , as it is widely acknowledged that parties referencing Islam, are likely to gain the most from the democratization of Middle Eastern countries.