Abstract

Is Britain becoming a more racist society? Arun Kundnani looks behind the media hysteria to show how multicultural Britain is under attack by government policies and vitriolic press campaigns that play upon fear and encourage racism.

Exacerbated by the attacks of 9/11 and 7/7, Kundnani argues that a new form of racism is emerging that is based on a systematic failure to understand the causes of forced migration, global terrorism and social segregation. The result is a climate of hatred, especially against Muslims and asylum seekers. Yet the government presses ahead with flawed policies and anti-terrorist legislation that creates further resentment, alienation and criminalisation.

What can be done? This timely and precise analysis is a useful account of why racism is now thriving - and what we can do to stop it.
'Kundnani guides us through the history and origins of the nebulous forms of today's 'new' racism, placing economic and political exploitation back at the heart of the issue. An invaluable book for confusing times'
John Pandit, member of Asian Dub Foundation
'Expertly dismantles the racism informing much of current political discourse on asylum, immigration and multiculturalism. A timely and important contribution to the struggle against racism that both new anti-racist activists and veterans alike will benefit from reading'
Councillor Salma Yaqoob, Vice-Chair of Respect
'Cutting through the media-hyped public hysteria on issues around multiculturalism Kundnani has produced a highly accessible and valuable historical analysis of racism shaping contemporary policy-making'
Ruhul Tarafder, 1990 Trust
'A timely and useful critical approach to the contested issue of British multiculturalism'
Dr Sarita Malik, Department of Sociology and Communications, Brunel University
'Before you can solve a problem you have to understand it. Arun Kundnani not only understands the roots and ramifications of contemporary racism but explains it clearly, linking the local, the global, the political and the cultural. An incisive book at a decisive moment'
Gary Younge
'An illuminating analysis of the historic development of British racism, its empire and how this has evolved into the current conflicting and confused debates - An essential resource'
Herman Ouseley, former Chair of the Commission for Racial Equality