Journalists looking to improve their reporting on Islam can access a manual released by the Michigan State University School of Journalism. The document is aimed at Western journalists looking to build competency in regards to the Islamic belief system, particularly when it comes to defining terms and distinguishing between religion and ethnicity.
For example, the term “jihad” is commonly mistranslated as “holy war,” and often has sinister connotations. But according to the manual, the concept has an entirely different meaning to mainstream Muslims. The authors also point out the importance of remembering that Islam is not monolithic and there is no single “Muslim viewpoint.”
To view the manual, “Best Practices for Reporting on Islam,” click here.