Talking about Islam in Zaragoza. An analysis of prejudices and influences on youth perception

Abstract

Declining interest in religion implies ignorance of its postulates. This, along with the increase in religious diversity, carries important challenges to intercultural coexistence in the same territory. This article discusses the religious perception of young people. Specifically, it is indented on their perception of the Muslim religion in society and the prejudices that exist about it (body punishment, male chauvinism, despotism and terrorism), as well as the perceived influence from the media and religious education they have received in the construction of their ideas. The main results reflect a greater perception of prejudice towards Muslims about male chauvinism, ahead of prejudices about terrorism. Likewise, young people do not rely on information received from the media about Muslims and do not see in religious education a resource for the promotion of respect and tolerance for religious diversity.