Description
Book SynopsisThe place of Middle Easterners in the racial hierarchy of the United States remains relatively unexplored in scholarly research. In this book this authors present the everyday experiences of this population by specifically focusing on Arab and Iranian Americans. Using focus groups and interviews, respondents were asked to comment on their everyday experiences in the realms of public spaces, educational settings, work, housing, and family. Through concrete descriptions and analysis of how Arab and Iranian Americans are confronted with matters of ethnic and racial inequality, this work''s primary aim is to debunk entrenched stereotypes by bringing to the forefront the human complexity of the Middle Eastern experience. Marvasti and McKinney argue that the discrimination and exclusion faced by this group cannot be fully understood using the existing paradigm of minority-majority group interactions. The political tensions between the U.S. and various Islamic countries in the Middle East com
Trade ReviewA superb read! This empirically-based account of the long forgotten Americans of Middle Eastern descent is intelligent, nuanced, and informative. Combining empathy for its subjects, profound knowledge of relevant contemporary topics, and a brave passion for the truth, this book is indispensable reading for anyone interested in the cultural and social dynamics of the United States. -- Hernán Vera, University of Florida
Highly recommended. * CHOICE *
This book is the first lengthy sociological examination of Middle Eastern Americans and their everyday experiences in U.S. workplaces, schools, and other major institutions. The authors go well beyond the usual discussions that focus on immigration patterns and countries of origin. -- Joe R. Feagin, Texas A&M University
Table of ContentsChapter 1 How They Came to America and Where They Are Today Chapter 2 Stereotypes of Islam and the Dubious Link with Terrorism Chapter 3 "Us" Versus "Them" Chapter 4 The Stigma of Brown Skin and "Foreign" Names Chapter 5 The Thin Veneer of Civility: Relearning the American Dream Chapter 6 Living with Discrimination Chapter 7 "I Am a Middle Eastern American!:" Ethnic Self-Identification Chapter 8 "Whining" About Social Justice?
