Islamophobia and its discontents

This chapter takes forward the proposition that Islamophobia is a constructive concept, but that it lacks degrees of specific application. This acts as a starting point in discussing the specific dynamics of different Muslim communities experiencing various tribulations of Islamophobia as a pernicious, all-pervasive, anti-Muslim and anti-Islamic sentiment. Comparisons are often made between Islamophobia and anti-Semitism, reflecting on the discernible experiences of racism and discrimination, but frequently without detailed qualification. The chapter argues that in order for Islamophobia to move on from its discursive framing, Muslims themselves need to take greater ownership of the principle by building mechanisms for conflict reduction, social cohesion, and ultimately social mobility and equality. Even though there is a significant body of literature in the field of Islamophobia, there is also a great deal of misunderstanding and generalization, which lead to simplification and objectification.