Most recent articles by Daniel Bax
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Ruud Koopman's "Das verfallene Haus des Islam"Cherry-picking for a distorted image of Islam
Why are predominantly Muslim countries lagging behind when it comes to democracy and human rights? Dutch sociologist Ruud Koopmans uses a lot of figures to underpin his theory that it is all down to religion. According to Daniel Bax, however, his approach is rather too simplistic
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Non-fiction: Aladin El-Mafaalani's "Das Integrationsparadox"Demanding a seat at the table
Unlike their parents and grandparents, the children and grandchildren of those who emigrated to Germany one or more generations ago now want a say in how things are done. In his new book "Das Integrationsparadox" (The Integration Paradox), Aladin El-Mafaalani explains why this leads to conflict. Daniel Bax read the book
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Muslim theologian Farid EsackMore than just an "Israel critic"
Some German commentators have labelled the South African theologian Farid Esack an "anti-Semite". But this over-simplification of his views on Israel does little justice to the intellectual and activist, who champions human rights and a liberal reading of Islam, says Daniel Bax
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The rise of right-wing populism in EuropeA continent divided
The rise of right-wing populism is throwing Europe off-balance. The impacts on policies concerning migration, inclusion and asylum are already evident. In many European countries, right-wing propaganda is calling into question achievements such as the freedom of religion, free movement for EU citizens and the right of asylum. By Daniel Bax
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′Nafri′ debate after New Year's Eve in CologneIn the white bubble
Criticising racist police checks should be a civic duty in Germany. Instead, the critics are now being vilified. A commentary by Daniel Bax.
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A Muslim woman speaks out on exclusion"Returning to the Dark Ages"
She is devoted to the struggle against anti-Muslim racism. Hatice Durmaz speaks out on hatred that has become socially acceptable, right-wing populists and hostility in German universities
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EU-Turkey dealThe alternative is Idomeni
Instead of mocking Merkel as a "pushover", those concerned with the welfare of refugees would do better to throw their weight behind realising her plan. Otherwise, we could see Europe adopting the Victor Orban model, the consequences of which can already been seen. Commentary by Daniel Bax
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Cologne: sexual assaults and the press codeOutrage reaches new heights
Reports on the sexual attacks on New Year's Eve in Cologne have intentionally emphasised the ethnic origins of the offenders. With what reason? A commentary by Daniel Bax
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Terrorism debateThe distortion of Islam
Why do terrorists such as those involved in the Paris attacks cite Islam as their motivation? Their actions have nothing in common with what most Muslims believe. By Daniel Bax
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The Young Danish poet Yahya HassanWhiz kid from the ghetto
Barely 18 years old, Yahya Hassan has thrilled readers and enriched Denmark's literary scene with his first volume of poetry. He also polarises opinion. Daniel Bax on Denmark's new poetry sensation
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Hamed Abdel-Samad's controversial theories on IslamCaution! Explicit Content!
Hamed Abdel-Samad's book "Der islamische Faschismus" (Islamic Fascism) is not a serious analysis, but a platitude-laden polemic against political Islam. Ironically, the book shows that its author has more in common with the people he is criticising than he realises. By Daniel Bax
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Book review: Amy Chua and Jed Rubenfeld on immigrant cultureAttack of the power migrants
Amy Chua and Jed Rubenfeld pledge to lift the lid on the cultural secrets of success of certain immigrant groups in the US. According to Daniel Bax, their book is nothing more than an exercise in cod folk psychology