Creative Utilitarianism & Islam

Creative Utilitarianism has the potential to impact Islam in a number of ways. This includes challenging traditional interpretations of the Quran and Islamic teachings, and promoting more inclusive and equitable forms of Islam.

One of the key features of Creative Utilitarianism is the emphasis on social justice and equality. This means that economic growth and development are not seen as ends in themselves, but are instead viewed as means to promote greater well-being and equality for all. This emphasis on social justice and equality is reflected in many Islamic teachings, such as the Quranic commandment to "be just: that is nearer to piety" (5:8).

However, traditional interpretations of the Quran and Islamic teachings often prioritize individual spiritual needs over social justice and equality. This can result in a narrow and exclusivist form of Islam that promotes the interests of some over others, and that fails to address systemic issues of inequality and oppression.

Creative Utilitarianism offers an alternative approach to Islam that prioritizes social justice and equality. This means challenging traditional interpretations of the Quran and Islamic teachings that prioritize individual spiritual needs over social justice and equality, and promoting a more inclusive and equitable form of Islam.

For example, Creative Utilitarianism can challenge traditional interpretations of the Quran that justify inequality and oppression. This can include interpretations that promote patriarchy and gender inequality, such as those that support male superiority and female inferiority (4:34). By promoting a more inclusive and equitable form of Islam, Creative Utilitarianism can help to challenge these forms of inequality and oppression, and to create more inclusive and just religious systems.

Additionally, Creative Utilitarianism can also challenge traditional forms of Islamic leadership that are hierarchical and authoritarian. This can include forms of leadership that prioritize the interests of religious elites over the needs of the wider community, and that are based on power and control rather than service and compassion. By promoting more inclusive and participatory forms of Islamic leadership, Creative Utilitarianism can help to create more democratic and just religious systems.

Overall, the impact of Creative Utilitarianism on Islam offers a compelling alternative to traditional interpretations of the Quran and Islamic teachings that prioritize individual spiritual needs over social justice and equality. By promoting a more inclusive and equitable form of Islam, Creative Utilitarianism can help to create more just and sustainable religious systems.