Security, Democracy, and Society in Bali: Trouble with Protection

This book explores the rise of security groups in Bali, Indonesia, examining their claims to represent the community, their role in money politics, and their impact on tourism, gender, populism, religion, and democracy. It draws on ideas circulating among leaders to construct contemporary politics.

\n Format: Paperback / softback
\n Length: 344 pages
\n Publication date: 03 October 2021
\n Publisher: Springer Verlag, Singapore
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This captivating book delves into the fascinating evolution of security groups in Bali, Indonesia, shedding light on a range of diverse developments that have shaped their rise. The security groups in Bali present a multitude of intriguing questions, prompting scholars and researchers to delve into their origins, claims, and impact on the local community.

One of the central themes explored in the book is the proliferation of large posters and advertisements that these security groups have placed throughout the streets of southern Bali. These posters serve as a means of promoting themselves and establishing their presence in the region. However, the question remains whether their claims to represent the community are genuine or merely a façade for criminal activities. The authors argue that these security groups are often shaped by Indonesia's violent past, with some drawing inspiration from past conflicts and seeking to assert their authority and control.

Another important aspect of the book is the influence of Hinduism on the gender politics of these security groups. The authors argue that Hinduism plays a significant role in shaping the attitudes and behaviors of these groups, particularly in terms of their views on gender roles and sexuality. While some security groups may promote traditional gender norms and values, others have been known to challenge these norms and advocate for greater gender equality.

The book also explores the role of these security groups in promoting illiberal populism or ethnic and religious tolerance. While some argue that they contribute to social stability and order, others contend that their actions can undermine local democratization and perpetuate inequality. The authors argue that the central role of these security groups in money politics prevents the development of a robust local democracy, as they often use their influence to manipulate political processes and consolidate power.

To address these complex issues, the book draws on the ideas that circulate among the leaders of these security groups. These circulating ideas serve as a framework for constructing contemporary politics around reinterpretations of old practices and responses to problems related to tourism, gender, populism, religion, and democracy. The authors argue that these ideas reflect the broader social and political context in which these security groups operate, and they play a significant role in shaping the political landscape of Bali.

In conclusion, this book offers a comprehensive and insightful analysis of the rise of security groups in Bali, Indonesia. It sheds light on the diverse developments that have shaped their evolution, and it raises important questions about their role in the local community, their relationship with Indonesia's violent past, and their impact on gender politics, populism, and democracy. By drawing on the ideas that circulate among the leaders of these security groups, the book provides a valuable contribution to our understanding of contemporary politics in Southeast Asia.

\n Weight: 482g\n
Dimension: 173 x 209 x 25 (mm)\n
ISBN-13: 9789811558504\n
Edition number: 1st ed. 2021\n