The MRR starts by giving the reader a basis for understanding what is covered and in which context. PART II, the core section of report, surveys media coverage on a thematic basis. Each chapter presents several exhibits of events in the media and extrapolates the key outcomes of the way the events were covered. A wide selection of media sources were chosen for study in order to ensure the report would document the full range of perceptions of Islam that exist in the mainstream media. The most significant criteria in selecting specific media outlets are their degree of influence in shaping contemporary discourse. This refers to the influence media outlets have on the general public as well as the key actors and drivers behind media perceptions in the industry. In the next section, PART III is a summary of Muslim initiatives attempting to add their voices to the Western discussion on Islam & Muslims. Then PART IV details a short list of widely spread literary works that can be used as exemplars for those wishing to know more about how to approach the current discourse in a positive light. The report is capped off in PART V with some more in depth material for readers wishing to understand the media as well as popular perceptions at a higher level. This section is intended to offer a basis for a conceptual understanding of how to enter the prevalent discourse.