Before beginning, we need to outline the parameters of this study. First, by “Islamophobia,” we refer to a largely unwarranted social anxiety about Islam and Muslims. Much more could be said about British and American stereotypes about Muslims. Other groups have also suffered negative stereotypes in these societies, but few communities have been perceived as so threatening. Hence, our argument here focuses only on the features of Muslims that have evoked such fear among the majority without exploring many of the other accusations about Muslims—such as their misogyny, their opposition to modernity, their commitment to a sensual religion, and their association with specific races.

DEFINE: Provides the study's working definition of Islamophobia as unwarranted social anxiety, distinguishing its focus on perceived threat from other stereotypes.

Carl W. Ernst, Islamophobia in America_ Th…, loc. 101