What Are We Tolerating? Decoding the Meaning of Tolerance in Indonesia Through the Lens of Social Representations Theory

Tolerance is essential for fostering peace in diverse societies, yet the concept of tolerance remains contested. Using the framework of social representations theory, we conducted an open-ended survey of 108 respondents and a content analysis of two YouTube podcasts to explore the understandings of tolerance in Indonesia. Integrating media discourse and individual interpretations, thematic analysis identifies key representations of tolerance across personal lived experiences and broader societal narratives. Findings suggest that instead of personal values, tolerance is more socially represented as a moral compass that governs intergroup behaviour in a pluralistic society.