INTERRELIGIOUS HARMONY AND THE QUALITY OF LOCAL DEMOCRACY: AN ANALYSIS OF SOCIAL CAPITAL AND POLYARCHY IN THE CASE OF GKJW MOJOROTO, KEDIRI
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.32332/moderatio.v6i1.13941Keywords:
social capital, polyarchy, local democracy, interreligious harmony, GKJW Mojoroto.Abstract
This study examines the dynamics of Muslim–Christian relations and their implications for the quality of local democracy in the case of the GKJW Mojoroto congregation in Kediri City, Indonesia. The research employs a qualitative case study approach using in-depth interviews, document analysis, and literature review. The analysis applies Robert D. Putnam’s theory of social capital and Robert A. Dahl’s concept of polyarchy. The findings show that everyday relations between the GKJW congregation and the Muslim community have generally been harmonious through social cooperation and participation in community activities. However, such harmony has not developed into strong bridging social capital regarding the construction of a permanent church in public space. The dominant form of social capital remains bonding social capital, in which majority-group solidarity is stronger than cross-identity solidarity. From the perspective of local democracy, the case demonstrates that democracy operates procedurally through dialogue and administrative mechanisms, yet has not become fully substantive in protecting minority rights. This study concludes that the quality of local democracy in plural societies depends on the development of inclusive social capital and institutional protection for minority rights.
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