Insiders and Outsiders

There is a well-established issue in sociology, and much discussed in the work of Robert Merton, regarding insiders and outsiders in empirical sociological research. However, a person’s position is never simply that of a single ascribed status. People typically have many status positions. Outsiders can frequently produce major works that are insightful such as Gunner Myrdal, a Swedish sociologist, in his An American Dilemma. The work of Muslim exiles has often been significant in producing new insights into society. The chapter examines significant contributions by exiles such as Edward Said, Ali Shariati, and Mohammad Arkoun. For the many western Muslims, are they outsiders?