Research Analysis of Interviews

Abstract

The research data discussed in this chapter is reflective of a particular sample of British Muslim converts within an identified and specific geographical context. It cannot, therefore, be considered as representative of all Muslim converts in Britain. Zebiri also acknowledged the limitations of her research insofar as the sample of converts interviewed could not be considered representative in view of the impossibility of finding: ‘a random sample due to the lack of a sampling frame (there being no way of identifying all British converts)’ (Zebiri, 2008: 10). Chapter 4 made reference to the Office for National Statistics’ (ONS) report in 2001 which, while highlighting the percentages of white British Muslims (4.1%) and Black British Muslims collectively (i.e., Black-British, Black-Caribbean, Black-African and Black-Other — 6.8%), failed to indicate what constituted the actual number of converts in relation to the more predominant ethnicities. According to the Scottish census, also conducted in 2001, approximately one-third of converts were categorised as Black Caribbean, approximately one-tenth as coming from Asian origins and the remainder belonging to White/Other backgrounds (Zebiri, 2008: 45). Chapter 5 addressed the sample groups’ ideological and social affiliation to Brixton Mosque in contrast to a geographical one, resulting in interviewees (respondents) coming from various parts of London other than the borough of Lambeth where the mosque is situated.