Ambivalence In American Culture

Through researching this question, we hope to better understand the dynamic between different religious beliefs on campus and whether or not minority religious groups face any additional pressures or obstacles from peers because of their minority status. The Muslim Student Organization is a good organization to pose this question to because of Islam’s lack of prevalence in Virginia. Muslims make up only 1% of Virginia’s adult population, while 73% of Virginians identify as Christian. This stark contrast could potentially invoke a feeling of ambivalence in Muslims in Virginia, who may feel the need to conform to the religious ideals of the majority while also staying true to their personal beliefs and traditions. This struggle is further compounded by the generally negative view of Islam purported by the American media in response to conflicts in the Middle East. Because the William and Mary MSA is made up of college students, studying them will provide greater insight into how young Americans especially struggle with these dynamics.
“Religion and Youth in American Culture” showed it is important to consider how young adults’ past religious experiences shape their current set of beliefs. The article also discusses the concept of American youth “bending and blending” different religious ideas to create a more personalized set of beliefs. While beginning our research, it will be important to remember these ideas and avoid looking at an individual’s religious beliefs as fixed and