Abstract

The chapter analyzes the recent history of the Muslim Brotherhood, in relation to the mimetic theme of resentment. MB is presented as an important case study because of its implications regarding the compatibility of political Islam with pluralistic democratic structures. A historical overview leads to the conclusion that the rise of MB in Egypt can be attributed to social resentment as its breeding ground. ‘Resentment’ as a philosophical theme is considered by Girard, drawing on Nietzsche and Scheler, but the picture is complicated by additional social and spiritual impulses. The theme of social justice is key; the writings of Qutb and Catholic Social Teaching both show elements of a vision of integral humanism. While the Nietzschean understanding of a necessary connection between religion and resentment is rejected, the temptation to dualism must be overcome by MB if a non-resentful participation within a pluralist society is to be realized.