Renovating Tolerance: Reframing the Meaning of Equality in a Pluralistic Society - Exploring Søren Kierkegaard’s Subject-Subject Relation

Abstract

This article explores the nuanced consequences of tolerance within the context of Indonesia's pluralistic society, characterized by a Muslim majority. While tolerance is fundamental for maintaining peace among diverse religious groups, it inadvertently fosters a power imbalance. The central aim of this study is to critically assess how the roles of "tolerator" (majority) and "tolerated" (minority) cultivate an inequitable relationship between a dominant Subject and a subordinate Object. Employing a conceptual analysis anchored in Søren Kierkegaard's philosophy of intersubjectivity, this research investigates the dynamics of the "I" and the "Other I." The findings reveal that tolerance, when construed as an act primarily of the majority, not only perpetuates but also solidifies societal divisions. This binary framing significantly impedes true respect and mutual understanding across different religious communities, particularly in a context where the majority's norms may overshadow minority rights. The study underscores the limitations of relying solely on tolerance for managing inter-religious relations and suggests that acknowledging the equal subjectivity of all individuals is crucial. By integrating Kierkegaard's insights, this paper illuminates the underlying power dynamics within the concept of tolerance and advocates for a framework of mutual recognition and respect. This approach aims to foster a more equitable and inclusive environment in a diversely populated country like Indonesia.