The American Muslim Dilemma in Post 9/11 Era: An Analysis of the New York Times Headlines

Abstract

Media always played a major role in molding United States public opinion. Therefore, September 11th, 2001, was the event that had a profound effect on the media’s portrayal of Islam and Muslims, the representation of Islam and Muslims in the media had significantly changed in the wake of this event. This study is designed as a thematic, qualitative, descriptive and analytical research. It aims at analyzing and describing the portrayal of Islam and Muslims through the scope of American media and The New York Times Newspaper, and how the aftermath of the 9/11 brought changes into the American public opinion and Foreign policy. Thus, what was the effect of American mass media on Muslims after 9/11 attacks? In addition, how Islam was portrayed? To meet the purpose, the research shall examine the representation of Islam in American media and analyze The New York Times Headlines during the pre-9/11 period. The finding reveals that media has a powerful impact on shaping public perception and attitude towards different groups and its deep-seated effect on stereotype towards Muslims and Islam.