Hamas is best-known to outsiders as a military organisation.  Its political wing has received less attention, and it is often assumed that the schools, hospitals and universities it runs are merely instruments for the dissemination of a jihadist ideology.  Following its surprise victory in the 2006 Palestinian elections, it is more important than ever to understand its politics.  How serious is its commitment to democracy?  Did people vote for Hamas in spite of or because of its Islamic agenda?  Drawing on extensive fieldwork...