Islamic Perspectives on Artificial Intelligence and Automation Ethics

Abstract

This research investigates the ethical considerations of artificial intelligence (AI) and automation from an Islamic perspective, integrating classical jurisprudential thought with contemporary discussion in the construction of technology ethics. Drawing on the Qur'an, Sunnah, and Islamic scholarship literature, the research addresses milestone issues such as human responsibility, moral agency, economic justice, and the preservation of human dignity in the face of adventuality by intelligent machines. While Islamic thought acknowledges the goodness of technological advancements for the general welfare, it cautions against possible negative consequences in the form of large-scale unemployment, privacy violations, algorithmic bias, and erosion of moral responsibility. By setting Islamic ethical principles—such as maqasid al-shariah (objectives of Islamic law), prohibition of harm (la darar wa la dirar), and care for fair economic distribution—against secular responses to AI ethics, this paper identifies points of convergence and divergence. It concludes by suggesting policy interventions for Muslim-majority countries to develop AI and automation in a way in line with Sharia principles so that technological innovation enhances human welfare and not threatens it.