Race, Islam and Power
Book Description
Andreas Harsono embarks on a profound fifteen-year journey across Indonesia's vast archipelago, from the western shores of Sabang to the eastern reaches of West Papua, documenting how ethnic and religious tensions have reshaped the nation's political landscape in the post-Suharto era. This deeply personal travelogue reveals the intricate cultural identities and localized power dynamics that define one of the world's most internally complex societies.
Drawing from extensive fieldwork spanning thousands of islands, Harsono illuminates the ways race and religion have become increasingly central forces in Indonesian politics. His exploration takes readers from northern Miangas Island near the Philippines to southern Ndana Island off Australia's coast, uncovering the particular challenges facing different communities across this diverse nation.
As both journalist and human rights advocate, Harsono approaches these sensitive topics with the perspective of someone deeply committed to civil liberties, democratic values, media freedom, and multicultural understanding. His work offers essential insights for anyone seeking to comprehend the ongoing struggles within contemporary Indonesian society.
Through careful observation and compassionate reporting, this 256-page account serves as both documentation and reflection on a nation still navigating its path toward greater harmony. Harsono's honest assessment acknowledges that Indonesians continue searching for resolution to these enduring tensions, making this an invaluable resource for understanding one of Southeast Asia's most significant societies.
Who Is This For?
📖 Reading Level: Medium (200-400 pages) (~7 hours)
📄 Length: 256 pages
What You'll Discover
- ✓ Explore Violence
- ✓ Explore Religious aspects
- ✓ Explore Indonesia, politics and government
- ✓ Explore Ethnic conflict
- ✓ Explore Ethnology, asia
- ✓ Explore Ethnic relations
- ✓ Explore World history
- ✓ Explore Islam
