DefinePK

Research Objective

To explore the evolution of moral systems from classical civilizations through to the post-modern era, utilizing an Islamic perspective to offer a unique lens on this historical progression, and to illuminate how different societies have conceptualized ethical behavior.

Methodology

The study involves a comparative analysis of classical texts, philosophical doctrines, and theological teachings, with a focus on seminal works that have significantly influenced moral thought.

Methodology Flowchart

                        graph TD; A[Define Morality & Scope] --> B[Comparative Analysis of Texts/Doctrines]; B --> C[Examine Classical Civilizations]; C --> D[Examine Semitic Religions]; D --> E[Examine Post-Renaissance/Modern West]; E --> F[Analyze Postmodernism]; F --> G[Contrast Islamic Absolute Morality vs. Relativistic Morality]; G --> H[Formulate Key Findings & Conclusion]; H --> I[Final Synthesis];                    

Discussion

The article contrasts the transcendent, absolute morality derived from divine revelation (Islam) with the subjective, individualistic morality of the modern West, which arose from secularization and the valorization of human reason post-Renaissance. It argues that the decline of religious adherence in the West has led to a moral vacuum where human dignity is reduced to biological impulses, contrasting sharply with the Islamic view that man is inherently good but requires divine guidance (Qur'an and Sunnah) for moral perfection and accountability to an Omnipresent God.

Key Findings

Traditional civilizations viewed morality as a path to inner peace and cosmic harmony, often rooted in mythology or philosophical virtue (e.g., Greek Golden Mean). Semitic religions, especially Islam, emphasize the divine command theory, where moral values are absolute, eternal, and rooted in the Qur'an and Sunnah. Modern Western thought, post-Renaissance, shifted morality to be secular and subjective, centering on individual autonomy and reason (e.g., Kant's categorical imperative). Islamic morality offers a balance between human instincts and divine will, asserting that true morality requires adherence to a divinely revealed code. Postmodernism rejects absolutism, favoring radical relativism where human actions are judged by subjective likes, dislikes, and circumstances.

Conclusion

The true understanding of morality lies in adhering to a divinely revealed code (Islam), as human nature is susceptible to corruption without the guiding principles set forth by Allah. Classical traditions emphasized spiritual essence and objective moral criteria, which modernity and postmodernity have largely dismantled in favor of subjectivity and empiricism.

Fact Check

1. The article was published in Volume 14 Issue 2 of the Journal of Islamic Thought and Civilization (JITC) in Fall 2024.
2. Bernard Williams' book discussed is titled "Ethics and the Limits of Philosophy."
3. Postmodernism is characterized by a rejection of absolutism and advocacy for relativism across various domains.

Mind Map