Robert Fisk

Robert Fisk, a journalist who writes for the British Independent, maintains in the following viewpoint that Western media promulgate demeaning stereotypes about Muslims. Fisk argues that Muslims, especially Arab Muslims, are consistently stereotyped in films, television programs, cartoons— and even the news—as “terrorist animals” who have no regard for human life. Although Islamic groups are not without their faults, he writes, Muslims certainly do not deserve to be the targets of racist propaganda.

As you read, consider the following questions:

1. What evidence does Fisk provide that the media’s portrayal of Arab-Americans “has reached Nazi-like proportions”"

2. What are the expressions commonly used about Arabs in Hollywood movies, according to the investigation conducted by Professor Jack Shaheen"

3. How does the media stereotype Muslims as terrorists, according to the author"

On...