Digital Sharia
In a world where advanced technology and deeply rooted religious laws collide, a dystopian vision emerges: an Islamic state ruled by Sharia law, but equipped with the latest surveillance and AI technology. This fictional society reveals a fascinating, if unsettling, fusion of tradition and futuristic technology that permeates every aspect of life.
Sharia law meets artificial intelligence
In this dystopia, Sharia law, the Islamic legal system, is no longer only interpreted and enforced by humans, but also by artificial intelligence. These AI systems are programmed to treat religious doctrines as an irrevocable priority, allowing for seamless, efficient and unyielding enforcement of religious laws. From the regulation of public life to personal lifestyle, every detail is monitored by algorithms capable of immediately identifying and reporting ‘sinful’ behaviour.
Total surveillance
The cities of this state are equipped with a dense network of surveillance cameras that watch every corner. Facial recognition technologies identify people in real time and check their activities for compliance with religious laws. Drones patrol the skies, equipped with high-resolution cameras and other sensors to monitor gatherings and detect potential violations of assembly bans or the public practice of prohibited activities.
Judges and executioners
In this dystopian state, AI systems act as judge, jury and, in extreme cases, executioner of punishments. These AIs are able to analyse large amounts of data from various sources, including communication monitoring, behavioural data and even biometric sensors that can measure emotional or physiological responses. The AI’s decisions are based on programming that strictly takes into account interpretations of Sharia law, often resulting in ruthless and error-intolerant jurisprudence.
Men, women and families
Gender segregation is being taken to a new level through technology. Women not only have to follow dress codes, but their movements are strictly controlled; unauthorised interactions with the opposite sex can be quickly recognised and sanctioned. Men, on the other hand, are under constant surveillance to ensure that they fulfil their religious duties, such as daily prayer. Families, which are considered the core of society, are monitored to ensure compliance with family and religious norms. Education is also monitored, with AI systems ensuring that children learn and follow religious laws from an early age.
Strictly regulated
In this society, any form of entertainment that is considered non-compliant with Sharia law is banned. Films, music and books must go through strict censorship processes before they are made available to the public. Internet access and social media are heavily restricted and monitored by algorithms that immediately block or remove content deemed harmful to moral and religious purity.
An alarming vision
This dystopian vision of a high-tech Islamic state under Sharia law depicts a world where technology is used not to liberate but to reinforce authoritarian control. The combination of religious fervour and advanced technology leads to a surveillance state in which privacy and personal freedom are virtually non-existent. A cautionary thought experiment that highlights the potential dangers of technology in the wrong hands.
