Islamic and Western Ideology of Democracy: A Comparative and Analytical Study

اسلامی اور مغربی نظریہ جمہوریت: ایک تقابلی و تجزیاتی مطالعہ

Abstract

In this paper, the theoretical foundations and practical manifestations of democracy are to be explored in the context of Islamic and Western thought. The purpose of this study is to compare and contrast the conceptions of democracy in these two distinct cultural and philosophical traditions. This paper sheds light on Islamic political thought, explaining the principles of governance as defined in the Qur'an, Sunnah and Islamic jurisprudence. It explores the concepts of shura (consultation), ijma (consensus) and musleh (public interest) as fundamental elements of Islamic governance, highlighting their compatibility with democratic principles. The study examines the practical implementation of democracy in both Islamic and Western contexts, examining case studies from countries with Muslim-majority populations as well as Western democracies. It examines the challenges and opportunities faced in adapting democratic ideals into functional political systems within these diverse cultural environments. Through this comparative analysis, this paper explores similarities, differences and possible points of convergence between Islamic and Western ideals of democracy. Tries to clarify. It offers insight into how cultural, historical and religious factors shape the concept and practice of democracy, ultimately contributing to a critical understanding of democratic theory and its application in diverse socio-political contexts.

                       Keywords: Democracy, Islamic and Western Thought, Islamic Political Thought, Religious Factors, Socio-Political