The Ethics of Artificial Intelligence in the Muslim World

By Azhar Niaz

Introduction: A New Technological Reality

As artificial intelligence (AI) becomes more embedded in our daily lives—from healthcare and finance to education and governance—the ethical questions surrounding its use are becoming more urgent. In the Muslim world, where faith and moral values are deeply woven into societal norms, a critical conversation is unfolding: Can Islam and artificial intelligence coexist harmoniously?

This document explores this complex relationship by examining the ethical foundations of Islam, the potential benefits and dangers of AI, and how the Muslim world can guide AI development through a moral lens.

1. Understanding AI: A Brief Overview

Artificial Intelligence refers to the development of computer systems that can perform tasks usually requiring human intelligence. These include:

• Learning and problem-solving

• Understanding natural language

• Recognizing speech and images

• Decision-making and prediction

There are two primary categories of AI:

• Narrow AI: Focused on specific tasks (e.g., voice assistants, facial recognition).

• General AI: Hypothetical, human-level intelligence capable of reasoning across multiple domains.

As AI grows in complexity, so do the ethical concerns, especially in culturally rich and spiritually anchored societies like those in the Muslim world.

2. The Ethical Foundation in Islam

Islamic ethics, derived from the Quran, Hadith, and scholarly consensus (ijma), emphasize five core objectives known as Maqasid al-Shariah:

1. Protection of Religion (Deen)

2. Protection of Life (Nafs)

3. Protection of Intellect (Aql)

4. Protection of Lineage (Nasl)

5. Protection of Property (Maal)

Any technology, including AI, must be evaluated against these objectives. The core question becomes: Does AI serve or harm these principles?

3. Potential Benefits of AI in the Muslim Context

3.1 Healthcare

AI can revolutionize medical diagnostics, patient monitoring, and disease prediction. In line with Islamic values, saving lives (hurmat al-nafs) is among the highest moral imperatives.

3.2 Education

AI-powered tools can provide personalized learning and Quranic studies, particularly for rural areas. Applications that teach Arabic, Hadith, or Tafsir using natural language processing could enhance Islamic knowledge.

3.3 Islamic Finance

AI can be used to detect fraud, assess Shariah-compliance in financial transactions, and create ethical investment portfolios—offering a modern pathway to Islamic banking systems.

3.4 Justice and Governance

AI could assist in reducing bias in judicial systems, ensuring transparency and fairness in line with the Islamic emphasis on ‘adl (justice).

4. Ethical Challenges Posed by AI

Despite its promise, AI raises significant concerns from an Islamic ethical standpoint.

4.1 Surveillance and Privacy (Haq al-Khususiya)

Surveillance technologies powered by AI can breach personal privacy, a right Islam values deeply. The Quran emphasizes not spying on others (Surah Al-Hujurat 49:12).

4.2 Algorithmic Bias and Injustice

AI systems can inherit and amplify human biases, potentially leading to discrimination. This contradicts Islam’s call for equality and justice (Surah An-Nisa 4:135).

4.3 Job Displacement

Automation may render many jobs obsolete, especially for vulnerable populations. Islam encourages the dignity of labor and warns against exploitation or economic imbalance.

4.4 Ethical Autonomy and Accountability

If an AI system causes harm, who is responsible? Islamic jurisprudence is based on niyyah (intention) and taklif (moral responsibility), which machines lack. This creates a gray area in accountability.

4.5 Creation of Human-like Beings

Advanced robotics and AI-generated avatars raise questions about tashabbuh (imitation) and fitrah (natural disposition), especially in contexts where the line between creation and creator becomes blurred.

5. Theological and Philosophical Questions

5.1 Can Machines Have Morals?

AI lacks a soul (ruh), consciousness, and intention—key concepts in Islamic theology. While machines can mimic ethical choices, they cannot comprehend moral accountability as understood in Islam.

5.2 Is AI a Form of Playing God?

Some critics argue that developing sentient machines borders on shirk (associating partners with Allah). However, others argue that AI is a tool—like fire or medicine—that must be used with wisdom.

5.3 Does AI Undermine Human Uniqueness?

Islam teaches that humans are ashraf al-makhluqat (the best of creation). AI, when designed to outperform humans in knowledge or decision-making, may challenge this belief. However, this can also be a test of humility and stewardship (khilafah).

6. Islamic Principles for AI Ethics

A proposed framework rooted in Islamic values might include:

6.1 Intention (Niyyah)

Any use of AI should have a morally sound objective, in service of humanity, not harm.

6.2 Justice (Adl)

AI algorithms must be fair and transparent. Discrimination or exploitation is prohibited.

6.3 Responsibility (Mas’ooliyyah)

Humans must remain accountable for AI outcomes. Delegating absolute authority to machines is unethical.

6.4 Compassion (Rahmah)

AI systems should promote mercy and empathy, especially in healthcare, education, and public services.

6.5 Public Welfare (Maslahah)

All technological development must prioritize communal benefit over profit or power.

7. Towards a Shariah-Compliant AI Framework

Islamic scholars and AI experts can collaborate to develop ethical guidelines that reflect both technological advancement and Islamic jurisprudence. Key suggestions include:

• Fatwas on AI usage: Religious verdicts should be issued for new AI applications.

• Shariah boards for tech firms: Just as Islamic banks have scholars overseeing compliance, AI startups in the Muslim world could do the same.

• Education and training: Ulama and technologists should engage in joint workshops to bridge the gap between faith and innovation.

• AI Ethics Committees: Include Muslim ethicists, scholars, engineers, and sociologists to guide national policies.