Pengaruh Media Sosial Terhadap Pemahaman Moderasi Beragama di Kalangan Generasi Muda

Abstract

This study looks at how social media affects the understanding of religious moderation among Indonesian youth. The Ministry of Religious Affairs defines religious moderation as a middle way in religion that prioritizes justice and balance. This is an important pillar for harmony in the midst of Indonesia's diversity based on Pancasila. Social media plays an important role of religious figures and digital influencers who use a relevant approach, as well as providing a great opportunity for the wide dissemination of religious information. Religious organizations and government initiatives are also actively involved in digital campaigns. However, there are some major issues that this platform faces. These include the spread of misinformation (hoaxes) and religious-based hate speech, the promotion of extremism and radicalism online, and polarization exacerbated by social media algorithms that create "filter bubbles" or "echo chambers". Reduced digital literacy and critical thinking skills make adolescents more vulnerable to this negative content. To address this issue, a broad approach is needed that includes improving youth digital literacy and critical thinking, creating engaging moderate and counter-narrative content, strengthening the role of families and educational institutions, and multi-stakeholder collaboration between governments, digital platforms, and religious and civil society leaders. This comprehensive method can be used to optimize social media as a useful tool to maintain national unity and improve understanding of religious moderation.