Research on Conservative Islam in Europe: Navigating Ethical Considerations

Abstract

This contribution discusses the ethical dilemmas inherent in researching marginalized communities, particularly in contexts where security approaches predominate. Focusing on a project involving white male converts to Islam who express critiques of liberal norms and institutions, this paper explores why such research is necessary despite the risk of amplifying illiberal voices. It also addresses the methodological challenges of conducting such research, considering the safety and well-being of different actors: the researcher, their respondents, and those who may be adversely affected by the exclusivist rhetoric of an illiberal community.