Information technology continues to develop, including
in the virtual interaction space (cyberspace) in the form of social media.
Social media users can easily present themselves by interacting, collaborating,
and obtaining information with other users thereby forming virtual social
bonds. However, this unlimited interaction also allows for the spread of
extreme views and radical ideologies which are packaged in content that appears
on social media.
Extreme groups often use social media to recruit new
members and propagate their beliefs. Nuruzzaman (2018: 71) conducted research
which was carried out within one year (2015-2016). The results of his research
revealed that 106,000 pro-ISIS activists activists who used social media for
propaganda. 166 groups on social media are used to build networks. In one day,
there are at least 90,000 pro-ISIS messages scattered and circulating on social
media. In 24 hours, there are an average of 270 tweets on Twitter that describe
being pro-ISIS. They use social media to attract young people to join.
In addition, social media algorithms tend to give priority to content that can trigger
emotions, including content that is controversial or provocative. Controversial
or shocking religious content often attracts attention more easily and gets a lot of reactions. This can cause
social media users to get caught in a so- called
“filter bubble” where they can be exposed to views that align with their own beliefs. As a result, users can be isolated from different perspectives
and views, which can deepen interfaith divisions.
Although many social media platforms have increased
efforts to monitor and remove harmful content, challenges remain in identifying
and addressing content that incites hatred, threatens, or provokes
religious-based conflict. To overcome this negative impact, strengthening
religious moderation and digital literacy skills is needed.
Based on the background of the problem above, the author is interested in studying further strengthening religious moderation and its implementation in responding to the negative impact of social media algorithms through integrating digital literacy with the trimoral concept. The solutions and innovations presented by the author are, “Si Bima Platform: Strengthening of Religious Moderation Through Digital Literacy and Trimoral’s Concept as an Effort to Avoid The Negative Impact of The Filter Bubble.
Moderation is an intermediate attitude that can change according to conditions and situations based on science in its application. Religious moderation is the main key in creating a moderate and tolerant generation that lives side by side in a multicultural society (Hefni, 2020). Technological developments require the native generation to voice content that is appropriate and suitable for society.
Referring to Lickona's theory reveals that there are three components of good character, namely 1) Moral knowing; 2) Moral Feeling; and 3) Moral Behavior (Tutuk, 2011). These three components can be integrated with digital literacy skills to strengthen religious moderation, especially in understanding controversial issues that often arise on social media due to filter bubbles.
Si Bima Platform is a platform that provides features according to user needs based on problem analysis and research carried out by the author. The explanation regarding the features of the Si BIMA platform includes the following:
1. Login on Dashboard
When users open the BIMSES Platform, a login screen will appear where they click and then enter their respective email. Users will switch to the home page and can select basic features first. This feature consists of 3 views that can be accessed according to user needs.
2. Be Moderat
On this page, several features will be provided, namely videos, ebooks, and the latest news regarding religious moderation to educate users in understanding in more detail about religious moderation. Finally, this knowledge can be implemented in daily activities, especially in using social media wisely
3. Smart Digital Literacy
This page contains features that include education about digital literacy. The design features that will be displayed are smart digital literacy, cyber security, social media content filters, games, digital campaigns, and relationships
4. International Conference
This page is a forum for organizers, religious moderation activists, religious leaders, and anyone who wants to voice and participate in discussions and events both domestically and abroad.
Based on the explanation above, it can be concluded that the problems of
controversial issues, cases of intolerance, and deviant ideas such as
radicalism and extremism will become increasingly dangerous if they are not
studied and appropriate solutions are provided. Extremism that develops slowly without armed resistance threatens state sovereignty
and the integrity of the nation. Intolerant cases and controversial issues will
sooner or later destroy national unity.
Therefore, appropriate innovation is needed to minimize this problem,
especially in receiving information and social media algorithms with a bubble
filter system where someone will correct the wrong thing when content with the
same theme is always repeated.
The BIMA platform is here as an innovation to help someone educate more deeply about religious moderation and provide direction about digital literacy. It is hoped that the presence of this innovation can make institutions that are indicated to understand extremism actionable and the public wiser in using social media.
Writer: Rieke Aurelia Azmi (1st Winner International Essay Competition)
From : UIN Walisongo Semarang
