I was somewhat amused to read the controversy regarding a French team working on an electronic Islamic fatwa machine. Here’s a snippet quoting the inventor (emphasis added):
I have consulted with several Islamic scholars and clerics in elevated positions there is no need to mention their names so as to avoid stirring up public opinion however, they have assured me that such a device is not ‘haram’ [prohibited by Islam]. But there are fears and scepticism regarding misuse and causing any misrepresentation or defamation to the figure of the Prophet. There are also fears in terms of Arab and Islamic public opinion and their acceptance of a machine such as this.
Source: Can a Machine Issue Islamic Fatwas? [Asharq Al-Awsat]
Personally I think the dons at Al Azhar ought to lighten up. Obviously, any AI device must be supplied with caveats. Nevertheless I think such a machine, could be very valuable aid for those exploring Islamic jurisprudence for themselves.
Recent Comments