Conclusion

This chapter summarizes the study’s main findings and considers the future for British Salafism in a newly intensified political climate. The research concludes that the women viewed Salafism as a rational choice that resolved religious, moral, and gender uncertainties. A picture of instrumentally and morally committed followers emerged—but intragroup affective bonds were lacking, raising questions about the women’s future involvement. The community was also facing challenges relating to its maturing first generation and emerging second one; the damaged reputation of leaders; campaigns for a public niqab ban; recent UK government measures against ‘nonviolent extremism’; and the now-prevalent belief that Salafism is the ideological parent of ISIS. Faced with such pressures, Salafi communities may retreat into further isolation. Yet some preachers are now promoting a more flexible Salafism that is more engaged with wider society—and, as this study shows, everyday lived Salafism involves constant compromise, intermingling, and adaptation.