Changing Paradigms: Islam and Muslims in Spain

Abstract

Based on a selection of four recent publications, this article addresses the question of Islam and Muslims in Spanish society within the framework of the peripheral position of Spanish Orientalism. These publications discuss Islam in Spain from perspectives that differ in objectives and methodology. The first book, by anthropologist Josep Lluís Mateo Dieste deals with the image of “the Moorish” over the course of Spanish history. The second, written by sociologist Salvatore Madonia is representative of a new line of research specifically interested in young Muslims in Spanish societies. The third publication, by anthropologist Jordi Moreras focuses on “radicalisation” as a new trend to study Muslim populations. The last volume, coordinated by arabist Luz Gómez-García, includes a significant number of articles, which analyze the relationship between the legitimacy and authority of Islam from a transnational perspective.