A new book by Adrian College political science professor Muqtedar Khan advances a peaceful vision of Islam and helps American Muslims adjust to their new realities.

"American Muslims: Bridging Faith and Freedom," which was due out in August by Amana Publications, critiques the extremist streaks within some Muslims, but also highlights the tradition of peace and tolerance inherent in Islam's teaching. It is the work of a public intellectual who is exploring the relationship between faith and freedom, religion and politics and ideas and policy.

"Especially since September 11, Muslims in America not only need to be better understood by others, they also need to understand themselves," says Ali Mazrui, Albert Schweitzer Professor, SUNY (Binghamton). "This important book is a contribution to both quests for comprehension. Muqtedar Khan brings passion, eloquence and intellectual power to bear on his subject."

Khan, 36, has already established himself as an internationally renowned expert on issues surrounding the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks. The Los Angeles Times has called him "The Voice of Moderate Islam," and Newsday said he is "one of a growing number of young, moderate Muslim thinkers who believe themselves engaged in a battle for the soul of Islam. "

Khan is assistant professor of political science at Adrian College in Michigan. He earned his doctorate in international relations, political philosophy, and Islamic political thought from Georgetown University in May 2000. He is vice president of the Association of Muslim Social Scientists and is also on the boards of the Center for the Study of Islam and Democracy and the American Journal of Islamic Social Sciences.