Artificial Intelligence Ethics in the Light of Islamic Jurisprudence: A Critical Analysis of AI’s Moral Implications using Maqāṣid al-Sharīʿah

Abstract

The rapid expansion of Artificial Intelligence (AI) across multiple domains has generated pressing ethical questions concerning accountability, fairness, privacy and the preservation of human dignity. While secular frameworks, rooted in utilitarian or deontological ethics, offer significant insights, they often overlook faith-based moral imperatives. This study critically examines AI’s ethical challenges through the lens of Islamic jurisprudence, focusing on the higher objectives of Sharīʿah (Maqāṣid al-Sharīʿah): preservation of religion (ḥifẓ al-dīn), life (ḥifẓ al-nafs), intellect (ḥifẓ al-ʿaql), progeny (ḥifẓ al-nasl) and wealth (ḥifẓ al-māl). Using a qualitative analytical approach, the paper explores how these objectives provide a comprehensive and spiritually grounded framework for assessing AI’s moral implications. Case analyses include AI applications in healthcare, finance, education and governance, highlighting both potential benefits, such as enhanced efficiency and accessibility and risks including moral erosion, bias and socio-economic inequality. The research draws upon classical juristic principles, contemporary fatāwā and emerging global AI governance standards to propose a balanced ethical model. Findings suggest that integrating Maqāṣid principles into AI policy can align technological innovation with holistic human welfare, ensuring that AI serves as a tool for benefit rather than harm. The study concludes that Islamic jurisprudence offers a unique and valuable contribution to global AI ethics discourse by embedding technology regulation within a divine moral framework, thereby harmonizing technological progress with enduring ethical and spiritual values.