The Role of Religious Moderation in Indonesian Multicultural Society: A Sociological Perspective

Abstract

Indonesia is a country rich in cultural and religious diversity. The diversity of culture and religion in Indonesia is one of the nation's assets that must be protected and respected. However, it cannot be denied that in practice, this diversity is often a source of conflict and tension among religious communities in Indonesia. The background of this research is the existence of interreligious conflict and social polarization that occurs in Indonesia. This study aims to explore the role of religious moderation in Indonesia's multicultural society. This study uses a qualitative descriptive approach by conducting a literature review of related articles, journals and books. The data analyzed in this study is the result of a literature study, namely theories and concepts related to the role of religious moderation in Indonesia's multicultural society. The results of the study indicate that the role of religious moderation can assist in building inter-religious harmony and tolerance in Indonesia's multicultural society. Religious moderation can also reduce social tensions and inter-religious conflicts. In addition, this research also shows that religious moderation can increase interfaith understanding and religious tolerance in multicultural societies. This research provides added value by showing that the role of religious moderation in Indonesia's multicultural society has great potential in building harmony and harmony between religious communities. The novelty of this research lies in the approach taken in understanding the role of religious moderation in the social and cultural context of Indonesia.