Islam and Democracy: Muslim Intellectual Responses

Abstract

The article highlights the intellectual response of contemporary Muslims on the philosophical construct and relational concept of democracy and shura. This was traced from selected writings of its advocates that discussed the philosophical and epistemological background and current democratic situation in the Muslim countries and its fundamental relations with Islamic political aspiration and its historical manifestation and scientific backdrop. The intellectual debate pertinent to the idea of democracy and its compatibility with Islamic principles were rigorously developed by Muslim activists and democrats represented by Rachid Ghannouchi, Ahmad Raysuni, Fazlur Rahman, Anwar Ibrahim, Siddiq Fadzil, Nurcholish Madjid, Mustafa Akyol, etcetera. The study is based on qualitative approaches using descriptive and analytical techniques. The finding shows the dynamic force of ideas formulated on the theoretical framework of democracy reinforced with textual evidence and in line with Islamic political principles (siyasah shariyyah) and its universal ummatic ideal (pax-Islamica). Its underlying structure was built upon universal ethical values that formed the basis of state ideology. It positively embraces its values and ideals projected in the context of the nation-state, which upholds a sublime vision towards shaping a sustainable, just and liberal order. Its approaches were in line with the principle of shura and constitutional ideas aiming to safeguard the fundamental aspirations of the people and their legitimate rights and interests and their collective voice.