Book Review: Islamic Political Discourse in the Reform Era

Abstract

The connection between the state and Islam is a dynamic and important theme in Indonesian political discourse, a situation inseparable from some Muslims' aspirations for Islam to become the ideology (foundation) of the state. In the important political events that have occurred, such polemics have often emerged and become sources of serious political tensions.

Carool Kersten's book, an Indonesian-language translation of Islam in Indonesia: The Contest for Society, Ideas, and Values (2015), examines the contestations of discourses and actors during Indonesia's Reform Era within the relationship of the state and religion (Islam). This book comprehensively explains how two groups—progressive Muslims and conservative (reactionary) Muslims—have continued their predecessors' struggles. It focuses specifically on the first group, as well as the diverse sub-discourses included therein.