This book is an ethnographic study of grassroots activists in the English Defence League. Setting the findings within contemporary debates on race and racism, Islamophobia, social movements and the far right.

Pilkington Hilary :

Hilary Pilkington is Professor of Sociology at the University of ManchesterHilary Pilkington is Professor of Sociology at the University of Manchester

'These voices of English nationalism make for difficult listening. The great strength of Hilary Pilkington's unflinching ethnography is her capacity to confound and challenge our political preconceptions and makes us think harder. This is an important, difficult and brave book.'

Les Back, Professor of Sociology, Goldsmiths, University of London

'Pilkington offers fresh and crucial insights into the politics of fear. Her unflinchingly honest depiction of the EDL breaks apart stereotypes of rightist activists as simply dupes, thugs, and racists and makes us confront the complexities of anti-Islamist/anti-Muslim fervor. This terrific, compelling book is a must-read for scholars and readers concerned about the global rise of populist movements on the right.'

Kathleen Blee, Associate Dean for Graduate Studies and Research Distinguished Professor of Sociology Dietrich School of Arts and Sciences