The Asian Gang Revisited: Changing Muslim Masculinities

The Asian Gang Revisited is a groundbreaking ethnography by Claire Alexander that explores the creation of Asian Muslim masculinities in South London. The book follows the lives of a small, diverse cohort of men from their teenage years through to their early-mid 40s, examining education, employment, friendship, marriage, fatherhood, and religious identity. It offers an intimate, rich, and textured account of what it means to be a Muslim man in contemporary Britain.

Format: Hardback
Length: 336 pages
Publication date: 11 January 2024
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

In her groundbreaking ethnography titled "The Asian Gang," published in 2000, Claire Alexander delved into the intricate tapestry of Asian Muslim masculinities in South London. Set against the backdrop of the moral panic surrounding "Asian gangs" in the mid-1990s, this profound work emerged after five years of immersive ethnographic fieldwork. Through its pages, Alexander explored the very essence of "the gang," the profound connections forged through friendships, and the pivotal role of "brothers" in the formation, performance, and negotiation of ethnic, religious, and gendered identities.

Now, in "The Asian Gang Revisited," Alexander takes us on a captivating journey, spanning the subsequent two decades, as she examines the evolving identities of the original participants as they transition into adulthood amidst heightened public and political concerns over Muslim masculinities. This narrative unfolds against the backdrop of significant events, including the War on Terror, the emergence of "grooming gangs," and the growing prevalence of Islamophobia.

Building upon her longstanding relationships with the men, spanning over 25 years, Alexander delves into the diverse aspects of their lives, encompassing education, employment, friendship, marriage, fatherhood, and religious identity. Through her meticulous research, she uncovers both the transformative changes and the enduring continuities that have shaped this unique group of men.

This longitudinal study, which focuses on a small but close-knit cohort of men, offers an intimate, rich, and textured account of what it means to be a Muslim man in contemporary Britain. Alexander's work provides a profound insight into the complexities and nuances of their lives, shedding light on the experiences, challenges, and triumphs they navigate daily.

"The Asian Gang Revisited" is a testament to the power of ethnography, as it offers a window into the lives of individuals often overlooked or marginalized by mainstream society. It challenges preconceptions, fosters understanding, and contributes to a more inclusive and empathetic portrayal of diverse communities.

In conclusion, Claire Alexander's "The Asian Gang Revisited" is a seminal work that delves deep into the lives of Asian Muslim men in South London. Through her meticulous research and compelling storytelling, Alexander provides a valuable contribution to our understanding of gender, identity, and religion in contemporary Britain. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in exploring the complexities of human experiences and the role of social and cultural factors in shaping our lives.

Weight: 546g
Dimension: 147 x 224 x 25 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781350384125