Islam, Representation, and Ethnic Stereotypes: Genealogy of the Construction of Madurese Identity in Javanese-Madura Relations in the Digital Space

Abstract

The representation of Madurese people in Javanese–Madura relations has often been associated with stereotypes such as being harsh, rude, temperamental, and violent. In digital spaces, these representations are reproduced through humor, memes, comments, and everyday communication. From an Islamic perspective, this raises important questions because the Qur'an emphasizes diversity as a means of ta‘āruf (mutual recognition), prohibits ridicule and derogatory labeling, and rejects judgments based on ethnic and social distinctions. This study examines the genealogy of Madurese representations in Javanese–Madura relations and analyzes how they are reproduced, negotiated, and contested in digital spaces from an Islamic perspective. Using a qualitative netnographic approach, it analyzes digital content, comments, humor, memes, and public conversations concerning Madurese identity through Stuart Hall's theory of representation, Pierre Bourdieu's concept of symbolic power, Michel Foucault's genealogical perspective, and Islamic concepts of ta‘āruf, ḥusn al-ẓann, ukhuwwah, and prohibitions of sukhriyah, tanābuz bi al-alqāb, and ghibah. Findings indicate that ethnic stereotypes are produced through categorization, simplification, repetition, familiarization, and naturalization. Humor functions as a micro-mechanism making stereotypical representations socially familiar. From an Islamic perspective, such practices become problematic when ethnic differences are transformed into negative judgments, ridicule, and generalized assumptions. The Qur'anic principle of ta‘āruf provides an alternative epistemology that understands diversity not as a basis for hierarchy but as an opportunity for mutual recognition. Thus, the study argues that Madurese stereotypes should be understood not only as a cultural representation problem but also as a question of Islamic ethics of representing the Other.