Islamic Radicalism and Multicultural Politics

The manifestation of an Islamic political radicalism in Britain has been one of the most dramatic developments in recent times. Islamic Radicalism and Multicultural Politics explores the nature of this phenomenon by analysing the origins of Islam, its historical contact with Western Europe and Britain and the emergence of an Islamic political radicalism in the Muslim world and in diaspora communities in the West.

Tahir Abbas draws on historical analysis and contemporary case studies to explore the post-war immigration and integration of Muslim groups, the complex relations that exist between a secular neo-liberal Britain and a diverse but multifaceted political and cultural Islam, and the extent of social and economic inequalities that affect Muslims as individuals and citizens in local area communities. He shows how violent extremism among British Muslims is in reality influenced by a range of issues, including the processes of globalisation and contemporary politics, media, culture and society. Examining and dissecting the approaches to public policy. Abbas offers suggestions for tackling the major social, cultural, political and economic questions facing British Muslims in the post-7/7 era.

An important contribution to the study of religion, race and ethnicity in modern Britain, this accessible work will be of interest to those working in the fields of sociology, ethnic studies, Islamic studies and political science, as well as policy-makers and practitioners.