Between Theory and Practice: American Muslims and the Limits of American Civil Religion

Abstract

This study aims to evaluate the theoretical claims of American Civil Religion (ACR) in the context of the sociological experiences of American Muslims. The lack of sufficient research on ACR's potential to include minority groups underscores the significance of this study. The research examines how ACR's core values-unity, inclusivity, equality, and diversity-are reflected in the experiences of American Muslims. It is based on semi-structured interviews with 16 American Muslims in Phoenix, Arizona. The findings reveal that while ACR theoretically presents itself as a unifying and inclusive narrative, it was often perceived to operate in ways that exclude certain religious and ethnic groups. Participants highlighted that ACR's rhetoric is Christian-centric, weakening the sense of social belonging among American Muslims. Furthermore, ACR is perceived not only as exclusionary but also as a factor complicating social cohesion for minority groups. In conclusion, this study emphasizes the need to reassess ACR's theoretical claims in light of American Muslims' lived experiences. It contributes to ACR literature and broader sociological discussions on the relationship between minority groups and religious frameworks.