Access Type
Open Access Thesis
Date of Award
January 2019
Degree Type
Thesis
Degree Name
M.A.
Department
Sociology
First Advisor
Khari Brown
Abstract
Using data collected by Pew from the 2011 Muslim American Survey, this study examines the association between religious identity and American identity for Muslims within first and second-generations. The more self-reported religious influence, the more likely they are to identify as a Muslim first. In addition, the study finds that religious sect and nation of origin are predictors of primary identity. Muslim individuals belonging to the Sunni sect are more likely than Shia Muslims to identify themselves as Muslims first. This distinction may be due to the majority of Muslim followers worldwide identifying as Sunni. This positions Shia Muslims’ not only as a minority within the United States but also within their religious and often ethnic groups as well, creating a unique cultural identity. I argue it is through the United States’ ongoing war with Muslim majority nations combined with a hostile environment in the United States for Muslims and Muslim immigrants that the degree and ability to assimilate is met with great struggle. Finding themselves in the periphery of American society, bound by bright boundaries that prevent their complete inclusion into society, Muslim Americans use their religion to create a personal and community identity.
Recommended Citation
Lotarski, Gabriel, "Muslims In America: Religion And Identity" (2019). Wayne State University Theses. 749.
https://digitalcommons.wayne.edu/oa_theses/749