The Muslim Problem

This book explains the increasing incidences and normalisation of Islamophobia, by analysing the role of signifiers of free speech, censorship, and fatwa during the Satanic Verses affair in problematising the figure of the Muslim. Ismail Patel develops the notion of Islamophobia not as a continuation of the antagonistic relation from the British Empire but as a postcolonial reformulation of the figure of the Muslim. 

The book views Islamophobia studies as a paradigm, engages in the debate of Islamophobia as a global phenomenon, investigates the contestation over its definition and challenges the view of Islamophobia as a reserve of the far-right. It assesses the debate around the concept of identity and shows how the colonised figure of the Muslim provided significance in constructing British imperial identity. Providing a decolonial, counter-Islamophobia approach that challenges Britishness’ exclusionary white symbolic content, the book calls for a liberating ideaof Britishness that promotes a post-racist rather than a post-race society. 

Theoretically rich in analysis, this book will contribute to discussions of identity formation, Britishness, Islamophobia and counter-Islamophobia. It will be of use to students and researchers across history, politics, sociology, cultural studies, literary studies, and anthropology.

-Peter Oborne. An award-winning writer, journalist and broadcaster.

“A new voice in Critical Muslim Studies, Ismail Patel brings a fresh and fundamental reappraisal of topical debates over Muslims and Muslimness. This is a rewarding and thought-provoking account which brings current dilemmas over how to challenge Islamophobia into sharp focus. An impressive book which is both passionate and persuasive in arguing for a paradigm shift in our understanding.”

-Ian Law. Emeritus Professor, University of Leeds and Research Professor, Södertörn University.

“This is an outstanding and thought-provoking book that provides a critical investigation into the contours of British Muslim identity. By engaging with Critical Muslim Studies, anti-foundationalism and decoloniality, Ismail Patel offers a sophisticated conceptual analysis that challenges popular understandings of Islamophobia. By tracing its historical and contemporary manifestations, Patel demonstrates the various contestations around Islamophobia, as well as elaborating upon its complex linkages with colonial and postcolonial encounters. This book is a much-needed intervention that delivers an innovative and refreshing approach on questions concerning Muslimness, Britishness and racism.”

-Dr Katy P. Sian. Senior Lecturer in Sociology, University of York.

Ismail Adam Patel is a visiting Research Fellow at University of Leeds and the chair of UK based NGO Friends of Al-Aqsa.