NEUROSAINS AND CHARACTER EDUCATION: A QUR'ANIC PERSPECTIVE ON MORAL DEVELOPMENT
Indonesia 
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Character Education, Moral Development, Prefrontal Cortex
Abstract
This study examines the integration of neuroscientific principles with Qur'anic teachings on character education, seeking to develop a comprehensive framework that bridges empirical findings from brain science with spiritual and moral guidance from Islamic scripture. Using a qualitative library research approach with thematic and semantic analysis of Qur'anic verses, the study reveals significant convergence between Qur'anic concepts and neuroscientific findings. The term na?iyah (forehead/prefrontal cortex) aligns with the brain region responsible for moral decision-making and executive functions. The term 'aql (intellect) corresponds to reasoning and discernment mediated by the prefrontal cortex. The term qalb (heart) relates to the limbic system, which processes emotions and forms memories. The term fu'?d (inner consciousness) connects to the insular cortex and anterior cingulate cortex, involved in emotional awareness. Neuroscientific principles including neuroplasticity, executive functions, emotional processing, mirror neurons, and social brain provide insights into how moral values can be internalized. The integration of these principles with Qur'anic teachings offers a framework for character education that addresses cognitive, emotional, and spiritual development. The findings confirm that the Qur'an provides an epistemological foundation aligned with modern neuroscience. The integration of neuroscience into character education requires a curriculum that harmonizes knowledge acquisition, value internalization, and behavioral habituation through active, participatory, and reflective methods.
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References
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