Artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming various aspects of life, impacting how individuals work, think, and make decisions. This shift presents significant challenges for Muslims, particularly those living in Western societies. According to Professor G Hussein Rassool, a prominent scholar in Islamic psychology, one of the main obstacles facing Muslims today is cognitive dissonance, a situation likely to intensify with the rise of AI technologies.
Living in a dual context complicates matters for many Muslims. On one hand, they navigate a professional environment primarily shaped by secular principles, where knowledge is often separated from spiritual beliefs. Success in this realm is frequently defined by metrics such as speed, profit, and personal advancement. Conversely, Islamic teachings emphasize values such as submission, intention, ethics, and accountability to God. This dichotomy forces Muslims to engage in constant code-switching, adopting different sets of behaviors and mindsets depending on their surroundings.
The historical context of technological advancements illustrates this ongoing struggle. During the printing press revolution, the Muslim world was slow to adapt, resisting its influence for centuries. Similarly, during the industrial revolution, many Muslims participated as consumers rather than innovators. When the landscape shifted once more with the advent of personal computing and the internet, the response was often reactive rather than proactive, resulting in a delayed integration into the global technological framework.
Now, as AI emerges, it presents challenges that extend beyond practical applications. AI is not only altering professional tasks but also influencing thought processes and belief systems. It has the potential to guide decision-making, filter information, and shape personal narratives, creating a risk of misalignment with core values. If Muslims remain passive during this technological evolution, they could face repercussions that hinder their ability to lead effectively.
Effective leadership requires a coherent alignment of spiritual, mental, and social elements. When significant internal dissonance exists, it stifles the emergence of effective leaders. The struggle to reconcile conflicting worldviews can lead to hesitation and self-doubt, making it difficult to take decisive action.
Rather than retreating from AI, it is essential for Muslims to engage actively with this technology. They should strive to be at the forefront of shaping the discourse around AI, not only through technical expertise but also by integrating values that reflect their beliefs. The urgency of the present moment calls for proactive leadership, rooted in a comprehensive understanding of both technological advancements and spiritual principles.
As the landscape continues to evolve, the time for Muslims to assert their presence and influence is now. The challenge lies not in avoiding AI, but in meeting it with intention and purpose, ensuring that their values remain integral to the conversation about the future.
