The Fear of Islam investigates the context of Western views of Islam and offers an introduction to the historical roots and contemporary anxiety regarding Islam within the Western world.
Tracing the medieval legacy of religious polemics and violence, Green orients readers to the complex history and issues of Western relations to Islam, from early and late modern colonial enterprises and theories of "Orientalism," to the production of religious discourses of otherness and the clash of civilizations that proliferated in the era of 9/11 and the war on terror.
In this second edition, Green brings the reader up to date, examining the Islamophobic rhetoric of the 2016 US presidential election and the ongoing success of populist and far right parties in Europe. Green provides updated data on the rise of anti-Muslim legislation--for example, the Muslim ban in the United States and a wave of full-face veil bans in Europe--as well as the rise in anti-Muslim hate crimes on both sides of the Atlantic since 2015.
This important book is essential reading for anyone who wants to better understand current views of Islam and to work toward meaningful peace and understanding between religious communities.
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Islamophobia doesn’t just hurt Muslims, it weakens Western civilization
“Todd H. Green has written a compelling and important book. The future of the West rises and falls on its ability to welcome the contributions of its most diverse elements. Thus, Islamophobia doesn’t just hurt Muslims, it weakens Western civilization. Green’s book helps us understand the problem and generate creative solutions.”
Highly recommended for reporters, teachers, and policy makers
“This is an outstanding presentation of the history and current state of Islamophobia. Todd H. Green draws upon reliable studies supplemented by original research to demonstrate how perceptions of Muslims are shaped and distorted, leading to prejudice and fear. Highly recommended for reporters, teachers, and policy makers.”
The Fear of Islam . . . should be required reading at high schools and universities
“The Fear of Islam is an incredibly comprehensive survey of Islamophobia, tracing how the West has regarded Islam from its inception in the sixth century to medieval writings, the European enlightenment, colonialism, the war on terror, and the present moment. In addition to offering important historical context and breadth, this book provides an accessible snapshot of scholarship on Islamophobia today. Covering both the United States and Europe, Todd H. Green shows how Islamophobia has long been motivated by struggles over power. Policy makers and media professionals would also benefit from reading it. It should be required reading at high schools and universities.”
Todd H. Green is among our most perceptive guides
“In many ways, the irrational fear and hatred of Muslims has become the fulcrum of US national politics. Todd H. Green is among our most perceptive guides to where this hysteria comes from, how it articulates our shameful history of racism, and how it works to degrade American values.”