AIN Kudus, February 26, 2024 – In its ongoing commitment to fostering intellectual discourse, the Program Studi Aqidah dan Filsafat Islam at IAIN Kudus recently hosted its monthly discussion series. This month's focus delved into the intersection of Internet, Media, and Religion, providing a platform for insightful conversations and diverse perspectives.

The first speaker, Subkhani Kusuma Dewi, MA, hailing from Western Sydney University, illuminated the audience with her extensive research on the intricate relationship between the Internet, media, and religious pilgrimage. Drawing on her expertise, Subkhani explored how digital platforms and media channels have influenced the way individuals perceive and engage in religious pilgrimages. She emphasized the transformative impact of the Internet on religious experiences, citing examples from around the world.

Subkhani's presentation touched upon the ways in which online spaces have become hubs for religious discussions, virtual pilgrimages, and the dissemination of religious knowledge. She also delved into the challenges and opportunities posed by the digital age in the context of religious practices. The audience was captivated by her insightful analysis, sparking a lively Q&A session where participants engaged in a thought-provoking exchange of ideas.

Following Subkhani's presentation, Dr. Efa Ida Amaliyah, MA, a distinguished faculty member of the Aqidah dan Filsafat Islam program at IAIN Kudus, took the stage. Dr. Efa delved into the theme of 'Internet and Religion' by presenting a case study focusing on Indonesia. Her research shed light on the dynamic interplay between the Internet and religious practices in the country, highlighting the unique challenges and opportunities that emerge within the Indonesian cultural context.

Dr. Efa's presentation delved into how the Internet has become a space for religious expression, communal engagement, and the propagation of religious teachings in Indonesia. She discussed the impact of online platforms on religious inclusivity and the formation of virtual religious communities. The case study also explored the potential risks associated with the digital realm, such as the spread of misinformation and the challenges posed to traditional religious authority structures.

The audience actively participated in the discussion, raising questions and sharing their own observations. The exchange of ideas underscored the importance of critically examining the role of the Internet and media in shaping religious narratives and practices.

Dr. Efa emphasized the need for a nuanced understanding of the complex relationship between the Internet and religion, advocating for a balanced approach that acknowledges both the positive and negative aspects of digital engagement. The event concluded with a sense of intellectual enrichment and a renewed commitment to exploring the evolving dynamics between Internet, media, and religion in contemporary society.

The Program Studi Aqidah dan Filsafat Islam at IAIN Kudus continues to be a beacon of intellectual curiosity, providing a platform for scholars, researchers, and students to engage in meaningful discussions that contribute to the understanding of religion in the digital age.