Pancesila: Indonesian Example Common Ethics

Posted September 1, 2006 in News

Leading figures from Indonesia's six institutionalised religions have agreed to make Pancasila (five principles) the cornerstone for a common ethics for society and their nation. The five tenets are: belief in one Supreme God, a just and civilized humanity, unity of Indonesia, democracy led by the wisdom of deliberations among representatives, and social justice for all people.

The 225 congress participants also acknowledged that it is the responsilibility of relgions to promote peoples' welfare, and thus they have not only agreed to the Pancasila as the basis for common ethics in the life of the nation, they have also agreed to develop interreligious cooperation to face both global and internal challenges. For example, it would be possible to participate in common activities to eradicate poverty and ignorance, and improve peoples' health and welfare.

They have also suggested that the State gurantee freedom of worship and encourage all religious believers to deepen their understanding and practice of religious values.

The five tenets are a useful template and could be easily adapted to other nations' circumstances. One suggestion would be to consider the inclusion of something on sustainability - as this fosters thinking of a legacy and viable future for indefinite generations and not just for the next few years. A multi-generational trans-time perspective is something that religions with their eyes on the things "not of this world" are best equipped to do. It also helps put into context how best to respond to current circumstances - as one contemplates the ripples of consequence in decades and centuries to come.

Source: Indian Catholic

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