MUHAMMADIYAH.OR.ID, JAKARTA – General Secretary of Muhammadiyah as well as the Minister of Primary and Secondary Education Abdul Mu’ti mentioned four emerging trends threatening the foundation of human civility and progress in today’s fast-paced digital world.
The first challenge Mu’ti identified is what he called the “death of expertise,” a concept introduced by author Tom Nichols. The overwhelming flow of information online, he said, has changed how people understand and trust knowledge.
“Technology makes it incredibly easy and fast to access information. The world is in our hands, especially now that people are talking about AI (Artificial Intelligence),” said Mu’ti in Nasyiatul Aisyiyah’s 94th anniversary ceremony on Saturday, May 31, reflecting on the theme ‘Resilient Women, Enlightening Civilization’.
Although technology offers convenience, Mu’ti warned that it also threatens human roles. Artificial intelligence is replacing jobs, not only in formal sectors but also in areas once considered safe, like religious leadership. People now often turn to Google for answers instead of consulting scholars or religious leaders.
The second issue he raised is the “death of mind.” Quoting Franklin Foer’s work, Mu’ti explained that many people no longer take the time to think deeply. Instead, they rely on quick, surface-level information.
“Nowadays, someone might read just a headline and think they understand everything. In fact, headlines are often written just for attention,” said Mu’ti.
This leads to people only seeking out information that confirms their opinions, rejecting different viewpoints without reflection.
The third concern is a lack of digital civility. According to a 2020 report by Microsoft, Indonesia ranked lowest in Southeast Asia in digital behavior. Mu’ti observed that many people freely insult others online, often hiding behind the label of “criticism,” even when their comments lack knowledge and reason.
“What’s worse is that some policymakers actually make decisions based on what netizens say. In fact, online opinions don’t always reflect real understanding,” said Mu’ti.
Mu’ti added that online popularity has become a measure of whether something is seen as good or bad, especially with the help of influencers and buzzers.
“This is a serious problem. Our digital civility index might reflect the real state of our society,” he said.
The fourth issue is the “loss of a sense of moral shame.” Mu’ti noted that many people, especially online, no longer feel embarrassed when they make mistakes or commit wrongdoing.
He referred to a Javanese proverb, “sing salah seleh” (those in the wrong should admit it), saying this principle no longer holds.
“In Islam, having a sense of shame is a sign of faith. If people are no longer ashamed of doing wrong, that’s when civility starts to break down,” said Mu’ti.
Therefore, Mu’ti encouraged Nasyiatul Aisyiyah to take an active role in restoring civility and advancing civilization. He emphasized that civility should rely on spiritual values, while progress should be built on knowledge.
