A new report by Ipsos MORI brings together and analyses research from various sources and explores the attitudes of British Muslims as well as the views of the public towards Muslims. The report was supported by the Aziz Foundation, Barrow Cadbury Trust, The Joseph Rowntree Charitable Trust and Unbound Philanthropy.
The research findings shows that:
.... Religion plays a far more important part of life for Muslims than it does for others
Religion is far more important to Muslims’ sense of identity than it is for others, which is notable given that wider research points to a decline in religion in British life. Religion is a particularly important to Muslims holding a UK degree. The vast majority of Muslims believe they can practice their religion freely in Britain and that being a Muslim is completely compatible with the British way of life. However, there are concerns that not enough is being done to protect the rights of Muslims and the review shows that Muslims are more likely to be worried about being a victim of crime because of their religion, ethnicity or skin colour.
Young Muslims hold distinct views to older Muslims
Younger Muslims are quite a distinct group in their views and outlook and this is particularly the case among young Muslim UK graduates. Across a range of attitudes, younger Muslims demonstrate more outward looking and liberal views. For example, younger Muslims have a more diverse friendship groups than their older counterparts, and are more relaxed on issues such as inter-racial marriage. Younger Muslims – particularly UK graduates – are more likely to be politically active than Muslim non-graduates. At the same time, this group is more likely to report experiences of discrimination and feel that prejudice against Muslims is increasing. [Ipsos MORI] Read more
