
Unity through Division
Political Islam, Representation and Democracy in Indonesia
Diego Fossati(Author)
Cambridge University Press
Published on 22. September 2022
Book
Hardback
242 pages
978-1-009-20303-6 (ISBN)
Description
Indonesia, like many other countries around the world, is currently experiencing the process of democratic backsliding, marked by a toxic mix of religious sectarianism, polarization, and executive overreach. Despite this trend, Indonesians have become more, rather than less, satisfied with their country's democratic practice. What accounts for this puzzle? Unity Through Division examines an overlooked aspect of democracy in Indonesia: political representation. In this country, an ideological cleavage between pluralism and Islamism has long characterized political competition. This cleavage, while divisive, has been a strength of Indonesia's democracy, giving meaning to political participation and allowing a degree of representation not often observed in young democracies. While the recent resurgence of radical Islam and political polarization in Indonesian politics may have contributed to democratic erosion, these factors have simultaneously clarified political alternatives and improved perceptions of representation, in turn bolstering democratic participation and satisfaction. This compelling book effectively challenges the wisdom of the role of Islam in Indonesian political life and provides a fresh analysis for debates on democratic backsliding in Indonesia and beyond.
Reviews / Votes
'Fossati designed a series of surveys to find out why the rise of political Islam after Indonesia's democratic transition in 1998 has not destabilized the country's politics. Patronage relations play a big role in elections, as do economic issues, but he finds that religious affiliations are a major determinant of how people vote.' Andrew J. Nathan , Foreign Affairs 'Recommended.' A. R. Abootalebi, ChoiceMore details
Language
English
Place of publication
Cambridge
United Kingdom
Edition type
New edition
Product notice
sewn/stitched
Cloth over boards
Illustrations
Worked examples or Exercises
Dimensions
Height: 229 mm
Width: 152 mm
Thickness: 18 mm
Weight
526 gr
ISBN-13
978-1-009-20303-6 (9781009203036)
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Schweitzer Classification
Other editions
Additional editions

Book
04/2024
Cambridge University Press
€35.00
Shipment within 15-20 days

E-Book
09/2022
Cambridge University Press
€78.99
Available for download

E-Book
09/2022
Cambridge University Press
€32.99
Available for download
Person
Diego Fossati is Assistant Professor in the Department of Public and International Affairs at City University of Hong Kong. Dr. Fossati studies political behaviour, accountability and representation, especially in the context of Southeast Asia.
Content
1. Introduction; 2. Explaining democratic survival in Indonesia; 3. The ideological roots of electoral politics; 4. Political elites and ideological competition; 5. Public opinion on political Islam; 6. Ideological representation; 7. Meaning and evaluation of democracy; 8. Conclusion.