Journal of Social Humanities and Education: Scripta Humanika
Vol 1 No 4 (2026): May: Jurnal Sosial Humaniora dan Pendidikan: Scripta Humanika

Carok as Self-Esteem: Korsa in the Philosophy and Ethics of Nusantara Culture

Harry Yulianto (Sekolah Tinggi Ilmu Ekonomi YPUP Makassar)



Article Info

Publish Date
29 May 2026

Abstract

Carok is examined as a manifestation of self-esteem in Madurese society through the lens of Nusantara cultural philosophy and ethics, with particular focus on the value of korsa (courage). A qualitative descriptive design based on literature study was employed by analyzing scholarly texts on Madurese tradition, cultural philosophy, and Nusantara ethical systems. Hermeneutic interpretation indicates that korsa is not merely physical bravery but a structured moral force that integrates self-esteem (ajhâr) and shame (lebbher) within a relational ethical system. Within this framework, korsa operates as an ethical response activated when honor is threatened and conventional mechanisms of restoration are no longer effective. Carok emerges as the most extreme expression of korsa when restorative pathways fail to reestablish social dignity, showing that violence is culturally constructed as a last moral resort rather than irrational action. The findings demonstrate that the logic of carok is coherent within Madurese ethical reasoning, while contrasting sharply with state legal ethics that prioritize universal non-violence principles. Therefore, conflict prevention policies need to transform korsa into constructive forms of expression without erasing its cultural and philosophical foundations.  

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Journal Info

Abbrev

scripta-humanika

Publisher

Subject

Humanities Education Social Sciences

Description

Journal of Social Humanities and Education: Scripta Humanika is a peer-reviewed academic journal that publishes research articles, conceptual papers, and critical reflections in the fields of social sciences, humanities, and education. The journal aims to serve as an academic platform for ...