Q.6 Discuss the role and response of Muslim Scholars to modernism and postmodernism. 2017
The role and response of Muslim scholars to modernism and postmodernism have varied, with some embracing these intellectual movements and others rejecting them.
Modernism refers to the intellectual and cultural movement that emerged in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, which emphasized reason, science, and progress. Some Muslim scholars have seen modernism as an opportunity to reinterpret Islamic teachings in light of modern developments. They have argued that Islam is compatible with modern values and that Muslims can adopt modern practices and technologies while remaining faithful to their religion. However, others have criticized modernism for promoting a secular worldview that is incompatible with Islamic beliefs.
Postmodernism, on the other hand, is a more recent intellectual movement that emerged in the late 20th century, which challenges the idea of objective truth and the ability of reason to uncover it. Some Muslim scholars have embraced postmodernism as a way to challenge the dominant Western narrative and promote alternative perspectives. They argue that Islamic teachings offer a unique perspective on truth and knowledge that can enrich the postmodern discourse. Others, however, have criticized postmodernism for promoting relativism and undermining the basis of Islamic beliefs.
In general, Muslim scholars have responded to modernism and postmodernism in various ways, depending on their own intellectual and philosophical orientations. Some have adopted a critical approach, which seeks to engage with modern and postmodern ideas while also preserving Islamic traditions and values. Others have taken a more defensive stance, rejecting modern and postmodern ideas as incompatible with Islamic beliefs.
Some Muslim scholars have also attempted to reconcile modern and postmodern ideas with Islamic teachings, arguing that Islam can offer a unique perspective on issues such as human rights, democracy, and social justice. They have sought to reinterpret Islamic teachings in light of modern and postmodern developments, while also retaining the essence of the Islamic tradition.
Overall, the role and response of Muslim scholars to modernism and postmodernism have been diverse and complex. While some have seen these intellectual movements as an opportunity to engage with new ideas and perspectives, others have been more critical, seeing them as a threat to Islamic values and traditions.
