Between Threat and Ideal: The Subjectivation of Imams

Abstract

Public debate on Muslims in Switzerland is characterized to a significant degree by issues of problematisation and securitisation. In this debate, imams have become an increasingly frequent topic, seen for example as those who steer Muslim communities. This article examines how perceptions and ascriptions in public debate affect the self-image of imams and is therefore concerned with the subjectivation of imams. Based on a discourse analysis of mass media and political debates in Switzerland and interviews with male imams, it reconstructs subject positions addressing imams, as well as their self-positionings. Findings indicate that imams are addressed by an anti-subject and an ideal model subject, leaving little space for manoeuvre in the imam’s self-positioning. However, applying the concept of mimicry suggests that there may be more agency for imams than revealed at first glance.

Keywords: imams; Switzerland; public debate; subjectivation; self-positioning