By Sharika Tasnim
Edited by Harith Syafiee
Exploration of AI. Source: What is Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Why People Should Learn About it - UCF Business Incubation Program - University of Central Florida
Nowadays, people are interested in exploring the functions of AI. AI definitely has its pros and cons.
According to our beloved Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), "Actions are according to intentions, and everyone will get what was intended." This hadith emphasises the importance of our intention, and it definitely happens when using technology. AI, with its ability to think and behave like humans, although not completely, should be harnessed with the intention of improvements in various sectors such as health facilities, education, and more.
Artificial intelligence (AI) has shown its effectiveness as a powerful tool in treating serious diseases such as cancer, neurology, cardiology, and diabetes. It plays an important role in accelerating the development of smart industrial manufacturing and contributing to its further evolution. AI technology provides reliable security and surveillance, while its applications can also be seen in fashion technology. In the field of education, AI technology is expected to have a positive impact by developing a simple learning environment and various educational tools that are personalised, flexible, effective, and easy to use.
What is AI? Source: The Motley Fool
Even with these advances, the potential dangers from AI cannot be ignored. The possibility of exploitation and abuse is a genuine concern. As stated in Surah Al-Muddathir, "Every soul will be in pledge for its own deeds" (Quran 74:38), emphasising individual responsibility and accountability. Furthermore, this responsibility is further emphasised in the Qur'an, "Indeed, the hearing, the sight, and the heart - about all those [one] will be questioned." This is from Surah Al-Isra, (Quran 17:36) as well as from Surah Az-Zumar, (Quran 39:70), "And every soul will be fully compensated [for] what it did; and He is most knowing of what they do." These verses serve as a reminder that developers, policymakers and users of AI should be aware of the consequences of their actions, ensuring that AI technology is not used for exploitation and abuse that causes harm to individuals, their families, friends, and society.
In addition, the verse from Surah Al-Baqarah states, "And do not commit abuse on the earth, spreading corruption." (Quran 2:60). This verse highlights the prohibition of causing damage and harm in the world. It implies a responsibility to use all resources, including technological advances such as AI, responsibly and ethically. Therefore, humans have a responsibility to ensure that AI and other technological advances are not misused in ways that could cause social, economic, or environmental harm.
Misuse of AI in education is a frequent issue and needs attention. The result is a loss of opportunity to engage with the learning material, develop critical thinking, writing skills, and a deeper understanding of the subject. The Quran emphasises the importance of knowledge and wisdom, and this principle applies in the use of AI, especially in education. In Surah Az-Zumar (Qur'an 39:9), the verse emphasises the value of knowledge by asking the question, "Are those who know equal to those who do not know?" This shows that knowledge is a valuable asset, and those who possess it are in a privileged position, emphasising the importance of ensuring that AI is used constructively and responsibly.
As AI becomes increasingly integrated into our lives, it is important to ensure that it is designed and used ethically, without perpetuating bias and causing social injustice or harm. The Qur'an provides guidance on this matter, emphasising the importance of justice and ethical behaviour. Surah Al-Ma'idah (Qur'an 5:8) states, "O you who have believed, be persistently standing firm for Allah, witnesses in justice, and do not let the hatred of a people prevent you from being just. Be just; that is nearer to righteousness." In addition, Surah An-Nisa (Qur'an 4:58) instructs, "Indeed, Allah commands you to render trusts to whom they are due and when you judge between people to judge with justice."
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