Islam and Religious Diversity in Indonesia: The Case of Muhammadiyah

Abstract

International audience ; Globalisation has been challenging religion-based movements in many ways. The TIC (Technology of Information and Communication, e.g. internet, social networks), Biotechnology (e.g. GMO, cloning, human insemination) and Feminism combined with Transgender Movements (e.g. women's rights, sexual identity) have put into question traditional beliefs on religious authorities, religious teachings and religious roles in society. The reactions of religion-based movements to these challenges vary and may be classified into two groups: 'Communitarist' and 'Pluralist' Movements. On one side, the activists of the 'Communitarist Movement' believe that their community is the sole holder of the truth, that they hold a sacred duty to apply their belief to the whole world, and that the individual as well as the collective life of the community members is dedicated to community interests. There are two variants of this type of movement: the 'Radicalists' who choose a radical way to achieve their goal, including violence and terror. The other variant is the 'Gradualists' who choose a gradual way to achieve their goal, including social work, education and political parties. On the other side, the activists of the 'Pluralist Movement' believe that diversity (including religious diversity) is the nature of the living world, that maintaining diversity is a must for the survival and continuity of the living world, and that dialogue is the best way to resolve the conflicts among the different religious communities. There are two variants of the movement: the 'Tolerantist' and the 'Altruist.' The 'Tolerantist' activists accept the presence of others, but ultimately believe in their superiority over others. The 'Altruist' activists accept the presence of others, but also take the interest of others as a point of departure of their moral conduct. Where is the place of Muhammadiyah in those movements? This paper tries to answer this question.