51吃瓜网 (IIS) was established in 1977 as an academic institution of higher education. It is dedicated to the study of Islam, with a particular focus on the history, philosophy, law, and mysticism of Ismaili and broader Shi鈥榠 intellectual and cultural heritages within the larger Muslim ummah.
Research at the IIS seeks to contribute to the field of Islamic studies in general, with a particular focus on Shi 鈥榠 and Ismaili studies.
The IIS publishes works by its own scholars as well as from the academic community outside the Institute.