From the Conception of Man to the Critique of Collectivism: The Structure of Alija Izetbegović’s Socio-Political Thought

Abstract

The socio-political thought of Alija Izetbegović occupies a distinctive place within contemporary Islamic philosophy, where it bridges theological anthropology and the political theory of modernity. His conception of man, culture, and civilization develops in dialogue with modern ideologies such as socialism, liberalism, and nationalism, seeking to affirm moral and religious principles as the foundations of political order. Although often studied as a political figure, Izetbegović’s intellectual system has not been adequately analyzed as a philosophical project offering a theoretical alternative to secular models of society. This study addresses that gap by presenting Izetbegović as a thinker who grounds his social theory in a metaphysical conception of the human being. The central thesis argues that his thought constitutes an original response to the crisis of modern collectivism through a model of a “sacralized civilization,” in which the spiritual dimension becomes the measure of social order. The analysis highlights his distinction between culture and civilization and demonstrates that the salvation of civilization depends on its sacralization. In conclusion, the paper establishes Izetbegović as a thinker who proposes a spiritually grounded pluralism of values and the possibility of an ethical renewal of modern society.