Rational Choice of Following Muhammadiyah and Nahdlatul Ulama and Their Social and Political Role in Indonesian Society

Abstract

Muhammadiyah and Nahdlatul Ulama are the biggest Islamic social organ-izations in Indonesia with more than 70 million adherents. Both two or-ganizations were founded in the early 19th century. This study aims to de-scribe the main features and characteristics of Muhammadiyah and Nahdlatul Ulama to understand the reasons of followers behind joining one of these two organizations and to describe the role of two organizations on social and political aspects of Indonesian society. This study is categorized under social definition approach. Based on the subject and objectives of this study, phenomenological type was the suitable approach to conduct this study in addition to in-depth explanation and illustration of two organizations. Qualitative method with purposive sampling was used to collect data by interviews and documents of both organizations. Characteristics of Muhammadiyah and Nahdlatul Ulama could be divided into two types: common and different characteristics. Muhammadiyah and NU are similar in social service, religious orientation and Islamic education. Both organizations share the same Islamic values regardless some differences in doctrines. There are some differences that Muhammadiyah is considered as Modern organization, revolutionary and renewal movement while NU has strong believe in the founder’s thoughts where no change in the basics of these thoughts and modern in education, politics and some social activities. Rational choice was based on five factors which are values of the organization, family background, education, society orientation and related benefits. Values of the organization and education have the priority in Muhammadiyah while family and values have the priority in Nahdlatul Ulama respectively. Muhammadiyah and Nahdlatul Ulama have a significant impact on the Indonesian Muslim society by holding religious activities, education, cultural events and charity. In addition, both organizations play important role in conducting socio-religious and socio-cultural occasions. Muhammadiyah and Nahdlatul Ulama are not political parties but they play a significant role in shaping the Indonesian politic. Activists of both organizations have formed political parties but not all followers of the both organizations follow these parties.