The importance of character education lies not only in the improvement of the capacity
of individuals, but also in their contribution to society. With good character, students are
expected to become members of society who contribute positively, uphold moral values, and
play an active role in social development. Therefore, character education is not only the
responsibility of the school, but also involves the active role of the family, the environment,
and the community at large (Ferdian & Alpizar, 2021). In this context, education is not only
about knowledge transfer, but also personality formation based on noble values to create a
quality generation.
The level of tolerance and social care, which was previously a distinctive identity of the
Indonesian nation, is now experiencing a significant decline. The decline in tolerance and
concern for others has a detrimental impact on various aspects of life. The decline in morality
of Indonesia's young generation is evident in the dynamics of daily life (Muntoha et al., 2023).
One striking example is the reduced sense of tolerance in the school environment. In this
context, we can see how students lack a sense of appreciation for differences, be it ethnic,
religious, or cultural differences. The presence of bullying and discriminatory behavior among
students can be a concrete example of this decrease in tolerance. Sometimes, students are less
able to appreciate diversity in the school environment, and this can create conflict between
them.
Social indifference is also reflected in the lack of concern for the social conditions
around. For example, students lack concern for classmates who have differences in ethnicity,
religion, and culture. They don't always show empathy or provide support to fellow students in
need. This can create a less inclusive school environment and result in social isolation for some
individuals (Wulandari et al., 2022).
The constructive potential of religion in the school environment can develop optimally if
each student is able to uphold the value of tolerance (Mastina & Imtihana, 2022). Tolerance
here is an attempt to exercise restraint so that potential conflicts, especially those based on
religious differences, can be suppressed. This attitude of tolerance is an important key to
creating a harmonious and inclusive school environment (Salmudin et al., 2023).
Conversely, the destructive potential of religion can arise in the school environment if
each student does not uphold the value of tolerance and harmony between religious
communities. When students consider their religion to be the most correct and denigrate other
religions, this can create tensions, conflicts, and even forms of discrimination among students.
Such a narrow view is often triggered by a lack of understanding of cultural and religious
diversity (Kartini et al., 2019).
SMA Harapan Mandiri is a school that upholds the values of diversity in the midst of
rich diversity. The school environment reflects ethnic, religious, racial, and inter-group
diversity. In it, students come from various cultural backgrounds, creating a mosaic of richly
colourful school life. Not only ethnic differences, but also diversity in beliefs and values
espoused by each student.
This situation provides unique challenges and opportunities for learning sociology at
SMA Harapan Mandiri. This diversity can be a valuable resource for understanding
sociological concepts in greater depth. However, in line with its positive potential, this diversity
can also be a sensitive point that requires a special approach so that students are able to uphold
the value of tolerance and inter-religious harmony.
The study of sociology has an important role in overcoming the destructive potential of
religion that can arise in the school environment. These subjects open students' horizons to the
social structure and dynamics of society, enabling them to understand the differences and
diversity that exist. In this context, understanding the diversity of society is crucial. Students
are invited to realize that society consists of various groups and individuals with different
backgrounds, beliefs, and values.