Citation

Aggarwal NK. J. Muslim Ment. Health 2011; 6(1): 4-20.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2011, University of Michican Press)

DOI

10.3998/jmmh.10381607.0006.102

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

This paper surveys the psychodynamic literature on suicide bombers to demonstrate a publication bias against Arabs and Muslims. First, Edward Said's concept of orientalism is situated within medicine as a hermeneutic for cultural critique. Next, select texts are analyzed to show how discussions of suicide bombers often include questionable sociological assumptions about Arabs and Muslims. Finally, conclusions and solutions are offered regarding the values of current psychiatric knowledge. By interrogating psychodynamic writings for their truth claims, we can investigate how scientific literature aspires toward an objective universalism while embedded within a particular social, political moment. © 2011 Michigan State University. All rights reserved.

Language: en

Keywords

Terrorism; Islam; Muslims; Suicide bombing; War on terror; Orientalism