AI, Moral-Religious Authority, and Muslim Identity: An Interactional Sociolinguistic Analysis of the YouTube Podcast The Thinking Muslim
Keywords:
Artificial Intelligence, Interactional Sociolinguistics, Muslim Identity, Moral-Religious Authority, SociolinguisticsAbstract
The use of AI has now developed into various aspects of life. For Muslims, this development requires addressing not only technological capabilities but also how AI is used in a way aligning with Islamic values. This study aims to examine how artificial intelligence (AI) is discussed and presented to a global Muslim audience in an episode of the podcast The Thinking Muslim. This study employs a qualitative approach using a single-case study design. This analysis draws on Gumperz’s interactional sociolinguistics supported by stance theory, identity-in-interaction, and audience design. The data comes from a 60-minute 17-second episode titled “The New AI Empires,” between host Muhammad Jalal and AI expert Waleed Kadous. The episode on YouTube was downloaded and transcribed. The data was then divided into 61 conversational units, coded, and grouped into five main themes. The results of this study show that AI is discussed not only as technology, but also as a geopolitical, ideological, moral, religious, and civilizational issue. Kadous’s authority is constructed through hybrid translation, which builds on his professional background and his position as a Muslim. The identity of the Muslim group is depicted as underrepresented and dependent on the technology of others. However, this group is seen as having responsibilities and morals, as well as the ability to build technological sovereignty. Changes in language variety, personal pronouns, analogies, and re-explanations help direct the audience toward education, investment, evaluation, and institutional cooperation. Therefore, this study encourages AI that aligns with Islamic values.
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