The UGM Faculty of Philosophy (Philosophy UGM) welcomed a group of international academics and doctoral students on Tuesday (Oct. 1) to study the role of philosophy and religion in a technologically advanced world.
Eleven doctoral students from Rwanda, India, Burundi, Myanmar, Colombia, and Indonesia are participating in the Globethics Doctoral School (GDS). Additionally, this program includes Globethics researchers from Switzerland, Germany, and Argentina.
During the GDS session held at Philosophy UGM, participants attended a short class taught by two professors from the Department of Philosophy of Religion, Professor Lasiyo and Professor Mukhtasar Samsyudin.
Professor Lasiyo provided insights into the context of religion and culture in Indonesia. Although they are not interchangeable, according to him, religion and culture can influence each other.
Religion affects belief systems and life practices, while culture, in turn, can influence how religion is interpreted and its rituals performed.
“Indonesian culture contains values of humanism, which can be found in many cultural components. Humanism in Indonesian culture is relevant to the second principle of Pancasila: a just and civilized humanity, which reinforces the application of its values as they grow and foster global fraternity,” explained Professor Lasiyo.
Meanwhile, Professor Samsyudin discussed how Indonesia’s rich cultural and religious diversity requires an ethical framework that respects local traditions while addressing global challenges.
Engaging with philosophy allows for the critical examination of values and beliefs, while technology provides effective communication and innovation tools.
“Building bridges between philosophy, technology, and religion in Indonesia is essential to fostering a cohesive and inclusive global ethical approach. As Indonesia faces pressing global issues, such as climate change, inequality, and social justice, an integrated ethical framework can guide effective responses,” Professor Samsyudin explained.
The topics discussed in this session align with the central theme of GDS, namely “Ethics of Inclusive Peace and Responsible Governance,” which addresses how to tackle the ethics deficit.
This theme is highly relevant to corruption, lack of transparency, and accountability, underscoring the urgent need for ethical leadership across various sectors.
Jason Kokkeragadda, a participant from the Indian Advanced Institute for Research on Religion and Culture (ARRC), remarked that Indian and Indonesian philosophy places a strong emphasis on the social aspects of life in a technologically advancing world.
“It’s fascinating to see how technology can serve as a tool to achieve equality rather than widening the gaps, as often happens,” he said.
Author: Philosophy UGM/Gloria
Editor: Gusti Grehenson
Post-editor: Afif