Pointing the Finger: Islam and Muslims in the British Media

by Julian Petley, Robin Richardson

Overview

The only detailed examination of how the British media treat Muslims

Uncovering endemic racism in the British Media

Ever since 9/11, Muslims and Islam have dominated the headlines in the UK. In this important book, several leading media commentators examine the phenomenon of ‘Islamophobia’ and ask how we can tackle it. Charting recent media controversies, from the Archbishop of Canterbury’s comments on Sharia law to the veil ‘debate’, the book argues that media hostility to Islam alienates Muslims and undermines efforts to combat extremism.
With interviews from Muslim journalists and examples of press-fuelled myths about Islam in Britain, this is a captivating insight into how Muslims are depicted in the West.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781780744636
Publisher:	Oneworld Publications
Publication date:	10/01/2013
Sold by:	SIMON & SCHUSTER
Format:	eBook
Pages:	329
File size:	876 KB

About the Author

Julian Petley is professor of Film and Television at Brunel University. He is the author of several books on censorship, and has written for the Guardian and Independent. Robin Richardson is Co-director of the Instead consultancy, focusing on issues of equality and diversity. His previous roles include director of the Runnymede Trust and chief inspector of education in the London borough of Brent. He is the author of Islamophobia: a challenge for us all.

Table of Contents

Contributors to Pointing the Finger vii

Introduction Julian Petley Robin Richardson ix

1 The Demonisation of Islam: Concepts, Terms and Distinctions Robin Richardson 1

2 Big Pictures and Daily Details: The Content and Form of Narratives Robin Richardson 21

3 Images of Islam in the UK: The Representation of British Muslims in the National Press 2000-8 Justin Lewis Paul Mason Kerry Moore 40

4 'Political Correctness Gone Mad' Hugh Muir Julian Petley Laura Smith 66

5 'A Question of Leadership': Who Speaks for British Muslims? Julian Petley 100

6 The Golden Thread: Britishness and Preventing Extremism 2000-10 Robin Richardson 152

7 Muslim Women and Veiled Threats: From 'Civilising Mission' to 'Clash of Civilisations' Gholam Khiabany Milly Williamson 173

8 'This Idiotic Man': Sharia Law and the Archbishop of Canterbury Claire George 201

9 Keeping Your Integrity - and Your Job: Voices from the Newsroom Hugh Muir Laura Smith 221

10 Responsible Journalism Julian Petley Robin Richardson 250

Notes 275

Bibliography 279

Index 293

Editorial Reviews

"This excellent collection of timely essays should be read by all with a civic concern for the growing divisions in our society."

Tariq Modood - University of Bristol

"Required reading for scholars, students, activists, and journalists. A forensic examination of how Muslims are misrepresented in Britain's media."

Arun Kundnani - Author of The End of Tolerance: Racism in 21st Century Britain and Visiting Fell

A timely and important book. With critical analysis of recent media coverage and suggestions for positive action, the authors advance the study of essential issues faced by multicultural societies today.

Staffordshire University and author of Reporting Elizabeth Poole - Senior Lecturer in Media Studies

"Required reading for scholars, students, activists, and journalists. A forensic examination of how Muslims are misrepresented in Britain's media."

Arun Kundnani - Author of The End of Tolerance: Racism in 21st Century Britain and Visiting Fellow