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ScholarWorks > HHS > Social Work > JSSW > Vol. 52 > Iss. 4 (2025)

 

Keywords

Neo-Orientalism, Islamophobia, identity, stereotypes, media, rhetoric

Abstract

This paper delves into the complex forces shaping the experiences of Muslims in contemporary society, focusing on the interplay between Neo-Orientalism, Islamophobia, and the quest for authenticity. The events of September 11, 2001, marked a pivotal shift in global discourse about Islam and Muslim identity. Neo-Orientalism, rooted in historical Orientalist perspectives, has evolved into a modern framework that sustains misleading narratives about Islam. Through essentialism and selective interpretation, Neo-Orientalist discourse influences media portrayals, political language, and public consciousness, perpetuating stereotypes and marginalizing Muslim communities. By engaging with Edward Said’s work on Orientalism, the paper traces the historical roots and contemporary manifestations of Neo-Orientalism, revealing its role in shaping perceptions of Muslims. The research also examines the rise of Islamophobia, an irrational fear and hostility towards Islam and Muslims, which intensified after the 9/11 attacks. Islamophobia, closely tied to Neo-Orientalist stereotypes, exacerbates the challenges faced by Muslims, perpetuating marginalization through media, political rhetoric, and systemic discrimination. In response to these distortions, the quest for authenticity emerges as a powerful counterforce. Muslims assert their agency by reclaiming their narratives and validating the diversity of their identities. This resistance is evident in educational initiatives, cultural expressions, and academic interventions that challenge fixed narratives and foster a more nuanced understanding of Islam. The interconnectedness of Islamophobia with broader systems of power and privilege underscores the need for a comprehensive approach to addressing the challenges faced by Muslim communities. As we navigate the intersections of Neo-Orientalism, Islamophobia, and the pursuit of authenticity, the study calls for dismantling the systems that uphold prejudices and cultivating empathy, understanding, and a commitment to a more just and inclusive global perspective.

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