Democracy between Western rooting and Arab reception

Abstract

Cognitive communication is one of the factors contributing to the importation of foreign concepts into our societies, such as the term "democracy." The circulation of terms with specific intellectual connotations is not necessarily problematic, as long as their meanings can align with our cultural framework. Moreover, while we cannot deny the political advancements achieved by others, reform efforts in our societies must be based on a thorough examination of what can be adopted and what should be rejected. This approach is essential to prevent both assimilation into foreign influences and withdrawal into isolation.

This raises the question: Can the concept of democracy be localized within our societies? And has democracy served as a mechanism through which the Muslim intellect has sought to implement the principle of shura (consultation)?

The necessary course of action is to develop an intellectual framework that facilitates discernment while reconditioning our minds for production rather than passively waiting for external influences.