Abstract
This paper delves into the intricate relationship between Islam and democracy, focusing on the role of Maqasid al-Shari’ah in shaping Islamic political thought. It explores how this framework, emphasizing the core objectives of Islamic law, intersects with democratic values and principles. The study begins with a historical overview of Islamic political thought, tracing the evolution of the Maqasid al-Shari’ah and its integration into various Islamic political models through history. It then examines the perspectives of three primary schools of thought in Islamic political theory: the normativists, who advocate for a traditional interpretation of Islamic texts; the acculturalists, who emphasize the adaptation of Islamic principles to contemporary contexts; and the neo-normativists, who seek a reevaluation of classical Islamic interpretations in light of modern challenges. The paper further analyzes the compatibility of Maqasid al-Shari’ah with democratic principles, discussing its application in modern Islamic states and the challenges and criticisms it faces. A comparative analysis between Islamic and Western democratic models is conducted, highlighting the influence of Maqasid al-Shari’ah on democratic practices in Muslim countries and its role in cross-cultural and interfaith dialogues. The paper concludes with a discussion on contemporary challenges and future directions, focusing on the political, social, and economic challenges in Muslim democracies, the role of education and public discourse, and recommendations for future research. This study contributes to a deeper understanding of the dynamic relationship between Islamic jurisprudence and modern governance, offering insights into how Islamic principles can be harmonized with democratic ideals in a rapidly changing world.
Published Version
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