Transhumanism and the Islamic Concept of Human Perfection: A Theological Inquiry

Transhumanism is an intellectual movement focused on eliminating bodily limitations through technology for enhancement, whether physical, cognitive, or expanding longevity. On the other hand, Islam has a concept of human perfection known as Insan Kamil that focuses on attaining the spiritual and moral refinement through submission to God and the development of innate potential. This study aims to perform a thorough theological and ethical analysis regarding the intersections, possible conflicts, and acculturation of transhumanism with Insan Kamil in Islam. Employing qualitative literature review techniques, data were gathered from the Quran and Hadith alongside contemporary peers’ publications about transhumanism and Islamic ethics. Relevant arguments, concepts, and principles were extracted through content analysis. Findings reveal conflicting stances on understanding humanity towards the aim of perfection, alongside technology versus divine grace. Other ethical considerations involving social justice were examined alongside autonomy, life cognitive enhancement, and enduring hubris potential. Theologically, notions regarding transhumanism contest creation, augmented free will dying after living a decent life marked by dignity, long relinquished. This study adds an interdisciplinary analysis and an ethical framework of responsibility from an Islamic perspective to address challenges posed by the transhumanist era.