Fueling Our Fears

After September 11, many in the American public and media zeroed in on Muslims in America and the world, irresponsibly linking—intentionally or not—Muslims at large with terrorism. This well-researched book explores this focus and its implications. At the same time, the authors do not leave out the opinion of Muslim Americans, exploring their views about the American media and its influence, their attitudes toward non-Muslim Americans and, just as important, their opinions on post–9/11 U.S. counterterrorist policies and practices. This book not only serves students and scholars in the fields of Middle East studies, media studies, and international communication but is also an enlightening read to anyone interested in mainstream America's perception of Muslims.

Brigitte Nacos and Oscar Torres-Reyna have written a fascinating book about Muslim Americans and the news. The authors surprisingly find some bright spots in coverage of Muslim Americans after the tragedy of 9/11, such as a remarkably positive tone, emphasis on protecting Muslim civil rights, and expanded thematic stories about everyday Muslim life in America. The authors present convincing evidence that the press is not only a source of stereotypes but also a voice for intergroup understanding. That a positive role for the press is at least possible in difficult times is welcome news for those who care about the role of the media in a multiethnic democracy., Fueling Our Fears considers the media coverage and focus on Muslim-Americans after 9/11, considering Muslim civil rights, stories about everyday Muslim life in this country, and showing that press reports don't just foster stereotypes but can promote cultural understanding. Both positive and negative points come to light in a study perfect for students of Middle East issues, media studies, or ethnic American cultures., A sober, critical, and incisive book showing how the American media has not lived up to its charge as the watchdog of free speech. Nacos and Torres-Reyna warn that the stereotyping of Muslim Americans in the media can have serious consequences for American society at large. The implication of their work is that the critical voice of Muslims can be used more productively to foster dialogue nationally and internationally between different cultures and civilizations.

Brigitte L. Nacos is adjunct professor of political science at Columbia University. Oscar Torres-Reyna is a Ph.D. candidate in Columbia University's Department of Political Science and visiting professor of public policy at Universidad de Guadalajara in Mexico.