A Global Racial Enemy: Muslims and 21st-Century Racism

Prejudice against Muslims has a long and complex history, with discrimination, violence, and human rights abuses against them increasing in recent decades. This book argues that anti-Muslim animus is a symptom of a global and powerful form of twenty-first-century racism, with counterterrorism policies and the representation of Islam playing a key role in shaping social life for Muslims.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 210 pages
Publication date: 14 December 2023
Publisher: John Wiley and Sons Ltd

Prejudice against Muslims has a long and complex history, marked by discrimination, violence, and human rights abuses against this community. In recent decades, the issue of Islamophobia has gained widespread attention, with reports and discussions of discrimination and violence against Muslims occurring across the globe. However, much of the conversation around this phenomenon has overlooked the key features of this increasingly insidious phenomenon.

This original book takes a groundbreaking approach by placing race at the center of its analysis. It exposes the global racialization of Muslims, highlighting the unique national contexts and shared characteristics of anti-Muslim racism. The authors examine the United States, China, India, and the United Kingdom, four countries that have been particularly affected by anti-Muslim sentiment. Through their detailed examination, they uncover how a range of counterterrorism policies, including hyper-surveillance and racialized policing, have played a significant role in shaping social life for Muslims. These policies have worked across borders to justify and institutionalize an acceptable, state-sponsored face of racism.

One of the central themes of the book is the way in which the representation of Islam has contributed to the perpetuation of anti-Muslim animus. The authors argue that media coverage, political discourse, and popular culture often portray Muslims as threats to national security, perpetuating stereotypes and prejudices. This representation has served to reinforce the idea that Muslims are a global and powerful form of twenty-first-century racism.

Another important aspect of the book is its exploration of the impact of anti-Muslim racism on the lives of Muslims themselves. The authors document the experiences of Muslims who have faced discrimination, violence, and human rights abuses, as well as the challenges they face in accessing education, employment, and social services. They argue that anti-Muslim racism not only perpetuates social inequality but also undermines the democratic values and principles that are essential to a healthy society.

In conclusion, A Global Racial Enemy is a powerful and thought-provoking book that sheds light on the complex and multifaceted issue of anti-Muslim racism. By placing race at the center of its analysis, the authors provide a comprehensive understanding of the global racialization of Muslims and the ways in which this phenomenon has shaped social life for this community. The book's insights are relevant to policymakers, activists, and individuals who are committed to promoting equality and social justice for all.

Weight: 312g
Dimension: 216 x 141 x 19 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781509540204