Anne Wells

The Pendulum Culture?: Integration of Young Muslim Immigrants in East London Anne Wells

Many people in the United Kingdom welcome the richness that so many immigrants bring to society, but others are afraid, worrying about the effect of population influx on a small island with limited space. They are especially anxious about Muslims who seem unwilling to integrate. A closer examination shows that younger Muslims-especially those in college-are in fact more willing to integrate than generally believed. But they face difficult challenges in straddling the line between two cultures. At home, they can be faithful to their family culture, but when away, they adapt. Seeking to help different groups understand each other, authors Janusz Balicki and Anne Wells examine the views of a group of Muslim college students. They share firsthand accounts from young Muslims who are navigating multiple cultures. The authors examine issues such as the importance of religious identities and of various traditions, gender equality and dress codes, and relationships between parents and children. Regardless of whether you are Muslim or not, you will understand yourself and others better and find new ways to work together with The Pendulum Culture.