Ethics in Technology and Social Media: An Islamic Perspective

Ethics in Technology and Social Media: An Islamic Perspective

In today’s digital world, technology, and social media play a significant role in shaping how we think, act, and communicate. For Muslims, these platforms present both; opportunities and challenges in living morally and ethically sound lives. Islamic teachings offer a timeless framework that can help navigate these complexities, with core principles such as truthfulness, privacy, justice, moderation, and accountability offering guidance to content consumers and creators.

Firstly, truthfulness holds a central place in Islamic ethics. In the Quran, Allah (SWT) instructs, “Do not follow what you have no ˹sure˺ knowledge of. Indeed, all will be called to account for ˹their˺ hearing, sight, and intellect.” [17:36], underscoring the need to verify information before spreading it. In the realm of social media, misinformation can spread like wildfire, impacting public opinion and potentially causing harm. This becomes crucial as we navigate an information-rich, yet often inaccurate, digital landscape. Muslims are encouraged to resist the urge to share content impulsively, especially if its accuracy is uncertain just because it may fit personal biases, be popular, or bring about popularity. Additionally, truthfulness extends to being honest in your own portrayals, showcasing personal achievements and daily life without deceptive editing. 

The notion of privacy is also significant in Islam, which strongly values personal boundaries and respecting others’ spaces. The Quran warns against prying into others’ lives, saying, 

In today’s digital world, this emphasis on privacy resonates strongly, as personal data is constantly shared and sometimes exploited. As technology makes it easier to access others’ private information, the ethical weight of respecting privacy grows heavier. For Muslims, respecting privacy doesn’t just mean avoiding intrusive behaviors; it means practicing discretion in our own online sharing. The push for transparency in social media can tempt us to overshare, but Islam’s emphasis on modesty reminds us to protect our personal boundaries. By choosing what to keep private, we honor both ourselves and others, embodying Islam’s guidance to approach life with humility.

Justice, a cornerstone of Islamic values, teaches Muslims to act fairly in all matters. On social media, the pursuit of justice can often be complicated by the design of algorithms, which tend to prioritize engagement over fairness. These algorithms can amplify popular narratives, while excluding others, creating echo chambers that reinforce biases. In a world where voices are amplified or suppressed based on profitability, the value of justice demands that we engage critically and seek out balanced perspectives. For Muslims, justice also means advocating for transparency in these systems, encouraging platforms to address biases, and creating more non-discriminatory spaces. The Islamic principle of fairness urges Muslims to consider both the content they consume and the biases that may shape their online experience. This phenomenon is justified through the verse of the Holy Quran where Allah (SWT) states,

Moderation is a value deeply woven into the Islamic way of life. In the age of addictive apps, moderation serves as a reminder to approach technology with restraint. Social media is designed to keep us engaged, often leading to over consumption that can affect our mental health and spiritual focus. Practicing moderation in our digital lives helps us create space for reflection, family time, and worship—things that might otherwise get lost in the endless stream of online content. The key is to engage meaningfully with technology while maintaining a balance that supports our well-being. Islam’s guidance to seek a middle path can help us establish boundaries around screen time, fostering a healthier relationship with the digital world. The Quran advises against extravagance, stating,

Sincerity, or ikhlas, is another essential Islamic principle that applies to the current digital landscape. Islam encourages Muslims to act with pure intentions, avoiding pretense and superficiality. On social media, where personas are curated and influencer culture promotes appearance over being genuine, staying authentic can be challenging. Islam’s emphasis on sincerity and honesty reminds Muslims to be true to themselves, resisting the pressure to portray a polished, idealized version of their lives. Being authentic in our digital interactions helps foster connections based on respect for one another, encouraging a more sincere, compassionate online community. Therefore, by sharing content that genuinely reflects our beliefs and values, rather than chasing trends or validation, we embody Islam’s emphasis on sincerity. 

Finally, the tenet of accountability, or hisab, reminds us that each person will be held responsible for their actions. The Quran emphasizes this, stating, 

This extends to the digital realm, where every comment, share, and post has a ripple effect, with its impact reaching far beyond our immediate circles. Practicing accountability means being thoughtful about what we post and the potential repercussions of our online behavior. Islam’s emphasis on self-awareness and responsibility calls Muslims to consider the effects of their digital interactions on others. Being accountable online also means refraining from participating in harmful discussions or disseminating information that could incite division or misunderstanding. 

In adhering to these principles, Muslims can employ technology as a tool to enhance rather than take away from their lives and build a respectful and ethical online presence. Actions, whether online or offline, are a representation of our commitment to faith and should follow Islamic values.