The Cliché of Terrorism: A Study of American Culture that Defines Muslim CultureSeptember 11, 2001 forever changed the landscape of the generalized view of the Muslim community in the United States; these acts have created a stereotypical image that all Muslims are extreme terrorists or condone such behavior. While this vision of the Muslim community was not necessarily new, it was not widely recognized in America until the events of 9/11 as it was continually pushed to the public by the press and media. This study will discuss the dichotomy between the representations of the Muslim community that many have in Western culture, as well as the psychological cause and effect of such representations. The sociological “norms” determined by American popular culture, the development of “terrorist” stereotypes through modern media, and the cause and effect relationship that postcolonial literature has had on the topic are all topics that will be evaluated. The goal of this research is to provide a better understanding of the situational attitudes held by both Muslims and Americans. Furthermore, this will offer an educated understanding of the gap between what is believed and what is real, in hopes of creating emphasis on the need for a new approach in creating a non-discrimination partnership with the Muslim community while maintaining awareness and safety. Theories of political terrorism in psychology have been frequently observed and analyzed over the years. The media spectacle and observance of the political ideology of Muslims has been the focal point of much research, but what has not received much information is the psychological understanding and motivations of a terrorist as an individual. In understanding this concept, we may be… middle of paper… not differentiating between the differences in the ideals of a Muslim and a Muslim American. To an American, they are both evil, violent, and capable of terrorist activity or condoning such activity. It is also important that those working in all aspects of media and literature understand the repercussions of the continued insinuation and inappropriate portrayal of what a “terrorist” equals to a Muslim. The fact is that terrorism takes many forms and is most dangerous when it is confused with the target. Once we have a better understanding of what exists and the commonalities of struggles Muslims have with other groups, such as African Americans, we can begin to build a new relationship with the community. Once this is done, the American people will be able to enjoy a safer environment and better understand what is truly dangerous and cause for alarm...