"This cleavage, while divisive, has been a strength of Indonesia's democracy, giving meaning to political participation and allowing a degree of representation not often observed in young democracies. While the recent resurgence of radical Islam and political polarization in Indonesian politics may have contributed to democratic erosion, these factors have simultaneously clarified political alternatives and improved perceptions of representation, in turn bolstering democratic participation and satisfaction. This compelling book effectively challenges the wisdom of the role of Islam in Indonesian political life and provides a fresh analysis for debates on democratic backsliding in Indonesia and beyond. Diego Fossati is Assistant Professor in the Department of Public and International Affairs at City University of Hong Kong. Dr. Fossati studies political behaviour, accountability and representation, especially in the context of Southeast Asia"--

Diego Fossati is Assistant Professor in the Department of Public and International Affairs at City University of Hong Kong. Dr. Fossati studies political behaviour, accountability and representation, especially in the context of Southeast Asia.

1. Introduction; 2. Explaining democratic survival in Indonesia; 3. The ideological roots of electoral politics; 4. Political elites and ideological competition; 5. Public opinion on political Islam; 6. Ideological representation; 7. Meaning and evaluation of democracy; 8. Conclusion.