Moderation in the Islamic Media Discourse: An Inductive Study

Abstract

This study aimed at establishing guidelines that moderate Islamic media discourse and free it from extremism and negativity. In doing so, Islamic media discoursewould reach all people and serve as a foundation for positive reshaping of Muslims’ awareness.

The qualitative inductive methodology was used to study the Quran, the Prophet’s Hadith, and the Sharia objectives as the sources of Islamic media discourse. From these sources, 12 guidelines were derived to make Islamic media discourse more moderate and positive. These guidelines wereintelligent discourse; accuracy, objectivity, and fairness; reform mentality; high moral standards; rationality; accepting the other; equality; avoiding extremes and preferring easier options; freedom of belief; smooth and considerate discourse; venerating humanity; positivity and optimism.