Unveiling the Dualism Between Carok Culture and Islamic Values: An Environmental Determinism Perspective in Madurese Society

Abstract Book of the 11th International Conference on Modern Approaches in Humanities and Social Sciences

Year: 2026

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Unveiling the Dualism Between Carok Culture and Islamic Values: An Environmental Determinism Perspective in Madurese Society

Anggun Pujianti

ABSTRACT:

This study aims to examine the dualism between carok culture and Islamic values in Madurese society through the perspective of environmental determinism proposed by Friedrich Ratzel. Carok, as a form of honor-based conflict resolution, continues to persist in the social life of Madurese, despite being in contradiction with Islam, which emphasizes peace and self-restraint. This research employs a qualitative method with an environmental determinism approach to analyze the relationship between environmental conditions, social characteristics, and the persistence of carok culture. This perspective is used to explain how the relatively harsh geographical conditions and limited natural resources in Madura contribute to shaping a society that highly values honor and firmness. The findings reveal that the dualism between carok culture and Islamic values is a result of a complex social construction. The community does not entirely perceive both as absolute contradictions, but rather situates them contextually. Carok is understood as a last resort in defending honor, while Islamic values remain the primary normative guideline in everyday life.

Keywords: Carok; Culture Dualism; Islam; Environmental Determinism; Madurese