Convergence and Divergence-A Critical Analysis of Quranic, Liberal, and Neoliberal Values

By V.A. Mohamad Ashrof, New Age Islam 8 January 2025 Abstract: This monograph critically examines the intersections and divergences between Quranic values, liberal values, and neoliberal ideologies. By engaging in a nuanced analysis of Quranic teachings, liberal principles, and neoliberal perspectives, the study explores how these value systems address human dignity, social justice, and economic equality, assessing their compatibility in promoting these fundamental goals. The monograph posits that Quranic and liberal values share significant common ground, particularly in their emphasis on individual freedom, social responsibility, and the protection of human rights. In contrast, neoliberal values—centred on unregulated markets and profit maximization—are found to conflict with the ethical frameworks underpinning both Quranic and liberal thought. This study provides a contextualized understanding of the complex interplay between these value systems, offering insights that can inform policymakers, scholars, and community leaders seeking to foster greater understanding and cooperation between Muslim and liberal societies. John Stuart Mill's Enduring Insight In his seminal work, On Liberty, John Stuart Mill articulated a fundamental principle that has far-reaching implications for individual freedom, societal harmony, and the role of authority. As Mill so eloquently stated: "The only purpose for which power can be rightfully exercised over any member of a civilized community, against his will, is to prevent harm to others. His own good, either physical or moral, is not a sufficient warrant." (Mill, p.22) This profound statement, known as the "harm principle," establishes a clear boundary between the individual's sphere of autonomy and the legitimate exercise of power by authorities. Mill's principle is a deceptively simple yet profoundly powerful concept. By prioritizing the prevention of harm to others, it safeguards individual liberty while also protecting the well-being of the community. This principle serves as a vital check on the abuse of power, ensuring that authorities do not overstep their bounds and impose their will on individuals without just cause. Mill's warning against using power to impose a perceived good on individuals is a timely reminder of the dangers of paternalism. When authorities overstep their bounds and seek to dictate what is best for individuals, they risk undermining personal autonomy, stifling creativity, and fostering resentment. The harm principle serves as a vital check on such paternalistic tendencies, ensuring that power is exercised in a manner that respects individual dignity and agency. Mill's insight remains remarkably relevant in contemporary debates surrounding individual freedom, state intervention, and the role of authority. As societies grapple with complex issues like free speech, religious freedom, and moral regulation, the harm principle offers a valuable framework for navigating these challenges. By prioritizing the prevention of harm to others, we can foster a more just, tolerant, and free society. John Stuart Mill's harm principle is a testament to the enduring power of liberal thought. As we continue to navigate the complexities of individual freedom and collective well-being, Mill's insight reminds us that the sacred boundary of personal autonomy must be respected. By upholding this principle, we can create a society that values individual dignity, promotes social harmony, and safeguards the freedom to live life on one's own terms. Quranic Appraisal of John Stuart Mill's Harm Principle John Stuart Mill’s harm principle, a cornerstone of liberal thought, strikes a harmonious chord with numerous Quranic principles that champion individual freedom, societal welfare, and the prudent exercise of authority. This alignment demonstrates how timeless wisdom and modern philosophy can walk hand in hand, offering insights that transcend eras and cultures. The Quran places immense importance on the protection of human life and property, echoing Mill's insistence on minimizing harm as a foundation for a just society. It states, “Do not kill a soul that God has made sacred except for a just cause” (Q.17:33), a verse that rings out like a clarion call for the sanctity of life. Similarly, the Quran underscores the necessity of preventing harm to others, a core pillar of the harm principle: “Do not cause corruption on earth after it has been set in order.” (Q.2:195) This verse paints a vivid picture of society as a meticulously arranged garden, where acts of harm are akin to scattering weeds that disrupt its harmony and balance. Beyond these shared values, the Quran places great emphasis on personal autonomy and responsibility, mirroring Mill’s emphasis on individual freedom. It proclaims, “Say, 'The truth is from your Lord, so whoever wills—let him believe; and whoever wills—let him disbelieve.” (Q.18:29) This verse serves as a beacon of enlightenment, illuminating the inviolability of personal choice, a principle that lies at the heart of Mill’s philosophy, as long as that choice does not cause harm to others. Justice and fairness, which are the lifeblood of a thriving society, form another bridge between the Quran and Mill’s principle. The Quran exhorts believers to be unyielding in their commitment to justice: “O you who have believed, be persistently standing firm for God, witnesses in justice, and do not let the hatred of a people prevent you from being just.” (Q.5:8) This verse drives home the idea that justice is not merely a virtue but a duty, even in the face of hostility, embodying the spirit of impartiality that Mill advocates in his principle. In essence, John Stuart Mill's harm principle and the Quranic principles dovetail seamlessly, like two halves of a whole, in their shared commitment to safeguarding individual freedom, promoting societal well-being, and ensuring justice. The Quran’s focus on protecting life and property, preventing harm, upholding personal autonomy, and advocating justice reflects the common thread of moral reasoning that runs through both traditions, bridging centuries and cultural divides with profound harmony and wisdom. Liberalism, as a political and philosophical ideology, underscores the importance of individual freedom, equality, and the safeguarding of individual rights. At its heart, liberalism aims to elevate human well-being and dignity, fostering societies where people can flourish and realize their fullest potential. Similarly, the Quran offers a moral framework grounded in justice, compassion, and human dignity. Although liberalism and Quranic values emerge from distinct historical and cultural contexts, they share substantial common ground in their emphasis on justice, human dignity, and individual autonomy. Like two rivers flowing towards the same ocean, these two traditions converge on fundamental principles that shape the way individuals relate to themselves and others. Foundational Principles of Liberalism Liberal political philosophy is grounded in several fundamental principles. Firstly, it emphasizes individual liberty, recognizing the inherent value of individual autonomy and the right of individuals to make their own choices, provided they do not infringe upon the rights and freedoms of others. Secondly, liberalism champions equality, advocating for the fair and equitable treatment of all individuals, irrespective of their race, gender, religion, or any other inherent characteristic. This principle demands that all individuals be afforded equal opportunities and treated with dignity and respect. Thirdly, liberalism prioritizes the protection of individual rights, such as freedom of speech, freedom of assembly, and freedom of the press. These rights are considered essential for the flourishing of a free and democratic society. Furthermore, liberalism emphasizes democracy as the most legitimate form of government. It posits that power should ultimately reside with the people, either through direct participation or through elected representatives. Finally, liberalism upholds the rule of law, advocating for a system of governance based on impartial laws and a fair and equitable justice system that ensures accountability for all. These principles, while not always fully realized in practice, form the core of liberal political thought and continue to shape political discourse and social movements around the world. These principles are deeply concerned with human dignity, autonomy, and justice, much like the solid bedrock beneath a flourishing civilization. Below, we explore how Quranic values and liberal principles converge. 1. Equality and Justice The Quran and liberal thought share a common ground in their emphasis on justice and human dignity. The Quran affirms the inherent dignity of all human beings, declaring, "We have certainly honoured the children of Adam" (Q.17:70). This recognition of inherent worth is a cornerstone of Islamic thought and resonates strongly with the liberal principles of equality and human rights. Furthermore, the Quran emphasizes the importance of justice, urging believers to stand firm for justice, even if it goes against their own interests. This principle, outlined in Q.4:135, aligns with the liberal ideals of social justice, which seek to address inequalities and ensure fairness for all members of society. Both Islamic and liberal frameworks emphasize the importance of creating a just and equitable society where the rights and dignity of all individuals are upheld and protected. This shared commitment to justice serves as a powerful foundation for fostering understanding and cooperation between these two diverse perspectives. 2. Compassion and Mercy The Quran emphasizes compassion and mercy as defining attributes of God, describing Him as 'Ar-Rahman' (The Most Merciful) and 'Ar-Rahim' (The Most Compassionate). This divine attribute is reflected in the Quranic injunction to "show mercy to those on earth, and God will have mercy on you." (Q.21:107) Furthermore, the Quran encourages forgiveness and reconciliation, stating, "The reward of an evil deed is its equivalent. But whoever pardons and makes reconciliation – his reward is [due] from God." (Q.42:40) These Quranic principles resonate with liberal ideals such as empathy and restorative justice. Empathy, the ability to understand and share the feelings of others, is a cornerstone of human connection and compassionate action. Restorative justice, which focuses on repairing harm caused by crime and restoring relationships within the community, aligns with the Quranic emphasis on forgiveness and reconciliation. The emphasis on mercy and reconciliation in both traditions underscores a shared commitment to fostering harmonious and compassionate societies, like seeds planted in the soil of human understanding, waiting to bloom into peace. 3. Freedom and Autonomy The Quran emphasizes the importance of individual freedom and autonomy, stating, “Let there be no compulsion in religion.” (Q.2:256) This principle recognizes the importance of free will and the right of every individual to choose their own path. Furthermore, the Quran states, “Say, ‘The truth is from your Lord, so whoever wills – let him believe; and whoever wills – let him disbelieve’” (Q.18:29), emphasizing that faith and accountability are personal responsibilities. This Quranic emphasis on individual autonomy resonates strongly with liberal principles, which prioritize the protection of individual liberties such as freedom of religion, speech, conscience, and expression. Liberalism also emphasizes the importance of voluntary association, respecting individuals' right to choose their affiliations and beliefs. Both Islam and liberalism value the pursuit of knowledge and understanding, encouraging individuals to make informed choices based on reason and critical reflection. This shared understanding of individual autonomy reinforces the idea that genuine faith and morality stem from free will, not coercion, like a bird soaring freely in the sky, choosing its own path. 4. Education and Knowledge The Quran emphasizes the pursuit of knowledge as a fundamental human endeavour. It states, "Recite, in the name of your Lord who has created." (Q.96:1-5), highlighting the importance of seeking knowledge and understanding. Furthermore, the Quran distinguishes between those who seek knowledge and those who do not, emphasizing the importance of intellectual curiosity and the pursuit of truth: "Say, ‘Are those who know equal to those who do not know?’” (Q.39:9). This emphasis on the pursuit of knowledge resonates strongly with liberal values, which prioritize education as a continuous and transformative process throughout life. Liberalism encourages lifelong learning, critical thinking, and the pursuit of new knowledge and understanding. Both traditions recognize that knowledge is not merely a collection of facts, but a source of empowerment, enabling individuals to make informed decisions, contribute to society, and shape their own destinies. By fostering a culture of learning and intellectual curiosity, both Islam and liberalism contribute to individual and societal growth, illuminating the path towards a more just, equitable, and enlightened world. 5. Environmental Stewardship The Quran emphasizes the importance of responsible stewardship of the environment. It describes God as the Creator of the heavens and the earth, stating, “He created the heavens without pillars that you see and has cast into the earth firmly set mountains.” (Q.31:10). Furthermore, the Quran recognizes humanity's role as God's stewards on Earth, stating, “He has subjected to you whatever is in the heavens and whatever is on the earth.” (Q.45:13). This implies a responsibility to utilize natural resources wisely and sustainably, ensuring their availability for future generations. This Quranic perspective resonates strongly with liberal environmentalism, which advocates for sustainable practices and the conservation of natural resources. Both traditions recognize the interconnectedness of humanity and the environment, emphasizing the need to find a balance between human needs and environmental protection. Just as a gardener nurtures a fragile garden, humanity has a responsibility to care for and protect the Earth, ensuring its sustainability for generations to come. The parallels between Quranic values and liberal principles demonstrate a shared concern for justice, compassion, and human dignity. While differences in context and emphasis exist, both frameworks advocate for a society where individuals are valued, empowered, and treated fairly. Recognizing these commonalities can serve as a foundation for fostering mutual understanding and cooperation between diverse communities. Ultimately, the shared human quest for justice and well-being acts as a bridge, spanning across the chasms of difference, uniting these philosophical and spiritual traditions in their shared aspirations for a better world. The Compatibility and Incompatibility of Neoliberalism with Quranic Values Neoliberalism, as a dominant global economic philosophy, emphasizes free markets, privatization, individual responsibility, and minimal government intervention. Its principles have shaped policies and economic structures worldwide. Conversely, Quranic values, rooted in divine guidance, prioritize human well-being, justice, and ethical conduct. Analysing the interplay between neoliberalism and Quranic values reveals areas of compatibility as well as significant tensions. Areas of Compatibility In the book, Ibn Khaldun (1332-1406), renowned Tunisian historian, sociologist, and Islamic scholar, developed, among other things, a theory of economic liberalism that advised governments to minimize taxes, secure private property, support free markets, and avoid budget deficits. He notes, that “Greater production and maximum efficiency can be obtained by trade and specialization through profit-seeking entrepreneurs who bear the consequences of their actions in terms of gains and losses the best State is the one that has minimal bureaucracy, minimum mercenary armies to keep law and order, and minimal taxation on its citizens to finance the activities of the State.” The World Bank has recently referred to him as “the first advocate of privatization.” (Glain, 2006) 1. Free Markets: The Quran acknowledges the importance of trade and commerce, encouraging believers to engage in lawful economic activities. Verses like “Do not consume one another's wealth unjustly but only [in lawful] business by mutual consent” (Q.4:29) and “When the prayer is concluded, disperse within the land and seek the bounty of God” (Q.62:10) align with neoliberalism's emphasis on free-market principles. This alignment reflects the idea that honest trade is the lifeblood of a thriving community, much like veins nourishing the body. The Quran’s endorsement of economic activity supports entrepreneurship and innovation, echoing the adage, "Nothing ventured, nothing gained." 2. Private Property: Quranic teachings uphold the sanctity of private property. For instance, “And give the relative his right, and [also] the poor and the traveller, and do not spend wastefully” (Q.17:26) reflects the recognition of individual ownership. This resonates with neoliberalism, which places significant emphasis on property rights as a foundation for economic stability and growth. In this shared value, property becomes a "cornerstone of prosperity," akin to a tree rooted in fertile soil, providing shade and sustenance. 3. Individual Responsibility: The Quran emphasizes personal accountability and agency. “Whoever goes astray only goes astray to the detriment of his soul. And no bearer of burdens will bear the burden of another” (Q.17:15) underscores the importance of individual responsibility. Similarly, neoliberalism promotes the idea that individuals should take charge of their economic and social outcomes, advocating for self-reliance and merit-based success. This alignment mirrors the saying, "You reap what you sow," highlighting the intrinsic link between effort and outcome. Areas of Incompatibility 1. Economic Inequality: Neoliberalism, while fostering economic growth, has been criticized for exacerbating income inequality. The Quran, however, condemns economic disparities and exploitation. “God has favoured some of you over others in provision. But those who were favoured would not hand over their provision to those whom their right hands possess.” (Q.16:71) critiques unequal wealth distribution. The Quran’s stance paints a vivid picture of wealth as a flowing river meant to irrigate all lands, not just a select few. Moreover, believers are urged to practice ‘Adl (justice) and Ihsan (benevolence), ensuring fairness in wealth allocation. 2. Social Welfare: A core Quranic principle is the obligation to care for the poor and vulnerable. “Righteousness is in one who gives wealth, in spite of love for it, to relatives, orphans, the needy, the traveller.” (Q.2:177). Zakat (mandatory almsgiving, and voluntary charity) are institutionalized means to ensure societal welfare. Neoliberalism’s reduction of state-supported social programs often contradicts this emphasis, potentially leaving marginalized groups unprotected. The Quran’s approach is like a safety net, catching those who might otherwise fall through the cracks. 3. Environmental Stewardship: The Quran commands believers to act as stewards of the earth. “It is He who has made you successors upon the earth.” (Q.31:10) emphasizes environmental responsibility. Neoliberal policies, with their focus on economic growth and deregulation, have often been linked to environmental degradation, conflicting with the Quranic ethos of sustainable resource management. This divergence is akin to building a house of cards on a crumbling foundation—short-term gains at the expense of long-term stability. 4. Regulation of Markets: Quranic ethics advocate for fairness and transparency in trade. “Woe to those who give less [than due], who, when they take a measure from people, take in full. But if they give by measure or by weight to them, they cause loss” (Q. 83:1-3). Neoliberalism’s minimal regulatory framework risks enabling exploitative practices, undermining the Quranic call for justice in economic transactions. Unregulated markets can become a "wild west," where the strong prey on the weak, contradicting the Quran’s vision of balanced and ethical trade. Areas of Tension 1. Role of Government: Neoliberalism’s advocacy for limited government intervention contrasts with the Quranic recognition of governance as a means of ensuring justice. “O you who have believed, obey God and obey the Messenger and those in authority among you.” (Q.4:59) reflects the Quran’s acknowledgment of legitimate authority. Effective governance is necessary to enforce ethical practices and protect vulnerable populations, creating a tension with neoliberal priorities. This tension can be likened to a tug-of-war between the scales of justice and the invisible hand of the market. 2. Globalization: Neoliberal globalization promotes interconnected markets but has been criticized for prioritizing profit over equity. The Quran emphasizes fairness and justice in economic dealings, as seen in “Establish weight in justice and do not make deficient the balance” (Q.55:9). Global policies that exploit labour or resources of weaker nations undermine this Quranic ideal. This imbalance is akin to a seesaw, where one end rises at the expense of the other, defying the Quran’s call for equilibrium. While Quranic values and neoliberalism share certain compatibilities, such as support for free markets, private property, and individual responsibility, they diverge significantly on issues of economic inequality, social welfare, environmental stewardship, and market regulation. The Quran’s principles prioritize "lifting all boats" rather than letting the tide favour a select few. Its emphasis on justice, equity, and collective well-being often stands in stark contrast to neoliberal priorities, which tend to prioritize profit and individualism. For a more harmonious integration, policymakers inspired by Quranic ethics must critically engage with neoliberal frame-works, advocating for a balance that upholds social justice, ethical governance, and sustainable development. In this quest, the Quran’s teachings serve as a compass, guiding humanity towards a path where ethics and progress walk hand in hand. Rethinking the Intersection of Islam and Liberalism Islamic jurisprudence often diverges from the true values espoused by the Quran. A striking illustration of this disconnect is the prevalence of Muslim apostasy and blasphemy laws, which contradict the Quran's emphasis on freedom of conscience and tolerance. Regarding the Muslim apostasy law, Iranian Islamic philosopher Abdolkarim Soroush astutely observes: "Forcing individuals to profess a faith... does not create a genuinely religious society, but rather a monolithic and intimidated collective of subjugated, submissive, and hypocritical individuals." (Soroush, p. 142) The Muslim world's historical resistance to abolition has largely faded, but a similar mind-set persists in resisting other liberal values promoted by Western societies, such as freedom of expression, religious freedom, and gender equality. This resistance is, in part, a response to the West's complex and often troubling history with Muslim societies. The legacy of colonialism, occupation, exploitation, and domination has undermined the West's claims to humanitarian ideals, making it challenging for many Muslims to embrace modernity, especially when imposed through coercion or manipulation. The hypocrisy of Western powers, prioritizing their interests over professed values, is a legitimate subject of criticism. In this context, self-appointed guardians of Islamic tradition, including Salafis, Islamists, and rigid conservatives, have emerged as vocal opponents of modern liberal values. These "Puritans" often exceed the orthodoxy itself in their zeal, fuelled by a reactive mind-set and the enhanced authority afforded by modern bureaucratic systems. The terrorist attacks on New York City and the Pentagon have brought Muslim theology under intense scrutiny, with some Americans perceiving a clash between Islamic values and Western liberal principles. However, this perceived dichotomy oversimplifies the complexities of Islamic civilization and its diverse interpretations. Paradoxically, the realization of liberal values often requires a nuanced approach that balances progress with a thoughtful reconsideration of tradition. In some cases, revisiting aspects of Islamic heritage can reveal surprisingly liberal orientations that surpass modern notions held by Muslims. This highlights the importance of critically engaging with the past to inform a more inclusive and equitable present. By acknowledging the complexities of Islamic tradition and the West's troubled history with Muslim societies, we can work towards a more nuanced understanding of the relationship between Islam and liberal values. Liberal Values Are Mostly Quranic Values while Neoliberalism has Some Incompatibility The Quran, often misunderstood as being at odds with liberal values, is, in fact, deeply in tune with many of the principles upheld by liberal ideologies. A deeper exploration of the Quran reveals that values such as individual freedom, social justice, intellectual curiosity, and human dignity are foundational in both Quranic teachings and liberal thought. Like two pieces of a puzzle, these values fit together harmoniously, even though they emerge from different historical contexts. The Quran and liberalism share common ground in their emphasis on individual freedom, social justice, critical thinking, and protection of human rights. Quranic values prioritize personal autonomy, fairness, and intellectual curiosity, aligning with liberal principles. However, neoliberalism, with its focus on unregulated markets, profit maximization, and minimal government intervention, is incompatible with Quranic values. The Quran condemns economic exploitation, hoarding of wealth, and neglect of the vulnerable, which are often perpetuated by neoliberal policies. In contrast, Quranic values promote a just distribution of resources, collective responsibility, and the protection of human dignity. Liberal values such as individual freedom, social justice, intellectual inquiry, and human rights protection are deeply rooted in Quranic teachings. The Quran and liberalism share common principles that promote human dignity and social harmony, much like two companions on a shared journey. However, neoliberalism, with its emphasis on unregulated markets and prioritization of profits over people, diverges from Quranic values. The Quran condemns economic exploitation and advocates for social responsibility, whereas neoliberalism often perpetuates inequality. Muslims can embrace liberalism's core tenets – justice, freedom, and human dignity – while critically rejecting neoliberalism's extreme aspects that clash with the Quranic vision of a fair and just society. In the interplay of ideologies, Quranic values and liberalism move in harmony, while neoliberalism falters. Bibliography Glain, Stephen, “Islam in Office,” Newsweek International, July 3, 2006 Mill, John Stuart, On Liberty, 2nd ed, London: John W. Parker and Son, West Strand, 1859 Soroush, Abdolkarim, Reason, Freedom, and Democracy in Islam: Essential Writings of Abdolkarim Soroush, Eds: Mahmoud Sadri and Ahmed Sadri, New York: Oxford University Press, 2000 ----- V.A. Mohamad Ashrof is an independent Indian scholar specializing in Islamic humanism. With a deep commitment to advancing Quranic hermeneutics that prioritize human well-being, peace, and progress, his work aims to foster a just society, encourage critical thinking, and promote inclusive discourse and peaceful coexistence. He is dedicated to creating pathways for meaningful social change and intellectual growth through his scholarship. URL: https://www.newageislam.com/debating-islam/convergence-divergence-quranic-liberal-neoliberal-values/d/134276 New Age Islam, Islam Online, Islamic Website, African Muslim News, Arab World News, South Asia News, Indian Muslim News, World Muslim News, Women in Islam, Islamic Feminism, Arab Women, Women In Arab, Islamophobia in America, Muslim Women in West, Islam Women and Feminism