Realistic Group Conflict Dynamics in Mohsin Hamid’s The Reluctant Fundamentalist: A Psychological Perspective

Abstract

The paper examines the socio-psychological tensions inherent in the colonial dichotomy in Mohsin Hamid's The Reluctant Fundamentalist, concentrating on the characters Changez and Erica. The study aims to investigate how the novel challenges misrepresentations of Muslims, particularly after the 9/11 incident, biases of the West, and stereotypes encountered by immigrants, especially Muslims, illustrating global dynamics through the protagonist, Changez's personal experiences. The research employs Muzafer Sherif's Realistic Group Conflict Theory (RGCT) to analyze identity crises, resource competition, and the viewpoints of marginalized groups, especially post-9/11 occurrences. An interpretative approach was used to examine the conflicts shown in The Reluctant Fundamentalist using the RGCT framework. This included examining the text to discern and elucidate the socio-psychological conflicts between the two portrayed realms. The results underscore how the text contests Western assumptions about immigration and depicts conflicts as means for resolution via zero-sum or superordinate goals. The research illustrates the importance of literary texts in challenging preconceptions and promoting immigrant rights from a socio-psychological viewpoint. This study augments comprehension of identity and conflict in modern society. It underscores the importance of engaging with literature to gain insights into the complexities of human experiences and to promote empathy and understanding.