Conceptions of Islamic Education: Pedagogical Framings argues that madaris (Muslim schools)
cannot exclusively be held responsible for the cultivation of extremism. Islamic education can
most appropriately be framed according to three interrelated concepts: tarbiyyah (rearing or
nurturing) ta'lim (learning instruction) and ta'dib (good action). These three phenomena are
explored along the lines of a minimalist-maximalist continuum that guides practices and
institutions differently. A minimalist understanding of Islamic education does not necessarily
produce uncritical citizens but a maximalist understanding engenders an ethical democratic
community and cosmopolitan beings concerned about their responsibility towards others. By
looking specifically at South African Muslim schools Conceptions of Islamic Education
undermines the misconception that such schools perpetuate Islamic radicalism.
