HIDAYATIKA, MALIKA SHAFARI (2025) JOHN L. ESPOSITO ON ISLAMOPHOBIA. S1 Undergraduate thesis, UNIVERSITAS DARUSSALAM GONTOR.
Abstract
Islamophobia has peaked in the last two decades since the events of September 11, 2001, significantly impacting Muslims, particularly in Western countries where they are a minority. Orientalist John L. Esposito offers a unique perspective on this issue, asserting that Islam is fundamentally a religion that rejects violence. He emphasizes that Islamophobia is often intertwined with political interests and highlights the media's role in shaping public perceptions of Islam, which frequently focuses on extremist acts while neglecting the broader context of Islam's peaceful teachings. This research aims to explain John L. Esposito's thoughts on Islamophobia and to analyze his various efforts in responding to this issue, particularly in the context of harmonizing social life within communities, especially regarding the dynamics of social life in the West. This study employs a qualitative method with a philosophical approach to explore John L. Esposito's views on Islamophobia spreading in the West. The data were collected through content analysis and literature review, focusing on media representations and public policy in the West, and examaining of related documents. This approach aims to establish a clear and precise foundation for understanding the stigma and stereotypes that proliferate in the name of Islam. The results of this study indicated that John L. Esposito defines Islamophobia in the West as a form of prejudice arising from a lack of understanding and intolerance toward Islamic beliefs and culture. Consequently, Muslims experience considerable consequences, including psychological and social pressures, as well as discrimination and racism. His suggestions for addressing this issue include various ideas and thoughts aimed at overcoming this phenomenon, such as the need for dialogue between religious communities and understanding the importance of education and awareness regarding diversity in human life. This research is expected to serve as a reference for further studies on the relationship between religious communities and their efforts to overcome conflicts that arise between them in the current context. It also aims to provide a deeper understanding of interreligious interactions to foster harmony and tolerance in an increasingly pluralistic society. For future research, it is hoped that this study can be enhanced, as the author acknowledges its imperfections and recognizes that there is room for improvement. Therefore, future researchers are encouraged to conduct more comprehensive and in-depth developments.
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