Lecture by Dr. Reza Gholami in the Series of Meetings by the Secretariat of Religious Scholars, Qom, November 14, 2024, 2:30 PM
In the name of God, the Most Compassionate, the Most Merciful.
Greetings to everyone, and my thanks to the Secretariat of Religious Scholars for this opportunity.
Today, I intend to share a broad perspective on the future of the world within the framework of emerging technologies and then address the crucial role of interfaith cooperation in shaping the future that awaits us.
In the coming decade, advancements in fields like artificial intelligence, the Internet of Things, and high-speed networks like 5G will connect the world in unprecedented ways. These developments bring significant benefits and risks that cannot be taken lightly. I will focus more on the great potential they offer, yet the need for joint action to manage complexities remains essential. Without indulging in fantasies, we might envision the world as a vast ship carrying all humanity across an uncertain ocean on a shared journey. When we face storms such as environmental, economic, or social crises, no one is immune. In this interconnected world, we share a common destiny, and only by supporting each other can we achieve prosperity.
Speculations on the Future of the World
Speculating on the future of the world can be approached through various perspectives and methodologies. My remarks here reflect a synthesis of viewpoints common among futurists. While discussions in this field are extensive and contentious, I prefer to briefly and concisely share some insights about the future.
Over the next ten years, as information and communication technologies and artificial intelligence advance, we seem to be headed toward the following conditions:
- An Interconnected Economy and Shared Supply Chains
The future of the global economy will be influenced by digital technologies and international supply chains, leading to greater interdependence among countries. This interdependence calls for countries to collaborate for mutual economic success without sacrificing their independence, instead encouraging convergence toward a shared economic future.
- Enhanced Communications and Global Knowledge Networks
High-speed communication networks will enable the instant exchange of information across borders, fostering scientific progress, cultural exchanges, and economic cooperation. This interconnectedness reinforces the idea that nations are on a shared journey, increasingly reliant on each other’s knowledge, resources, and innovation. Notably, new technologies, especially the advent of quantum computing, will elevate this field to a level far beyond anything we have yet encountered.
- Cybersecurity Challenges and Digital Dependency
With the advancement of technology systems, security threats also grow, exposing nations to significant vulnerabilities. Cybersecurity thus becomes an essential area for international collaboration, as nations need to protect shared information and infrastructure. Global agreements on cybersecurity can safeguard the “ship” against threats in the digital world.
- New Workforce Needs and Global Cooperation on Skills Development
As artificial intelligence and automation reshape the workforce, countries must collaborate to train and develop new skills. Preparing a global workforce requires cooperation in education and training to build a generation ready for a technologically advanced future. AI will initially lead to widespread unemployment, but this issue will gradually be addressed as new jobs are created; however, individuals with limited knowledge and skills will struggle to secure suitable employment.
- Unity in Addressing Global Issues
Global challenges like climate change, migration, and resource management cannot be solved by any one nation alone. By strengthening practical wisdom, fostering cooperation, and particularly leveraging technology to study and manage these issues, we can propose solutions that benefit all on this shared journey and bolster a sense of collective responsibility for the world in which we live.
- Balancing National Sovereignty with Global Cooperation
While nations value their independence, they must also recognize the need for cooperation in an interconnected world. By finding a balance between autonomy and collaboration, countries can help maintain global economic stability without compromising their unique identities. Independence and globalization need not be seen as opposites; independence can be redefined, allowing nations to retain a suitable level of autonomy even as they join the powerful current of globalization.
- Rethinking Borders in the Digital Age
Digital technology has transformed the traditional concept of borders, as virtual spaces and digital economies connect individuals in ways that go beyond physical boundaries. Nations must adopt new policies and mindsets to guide relations in this connected world and adapt to the realities of digital interactions. In the next decade, over sixty percent of physical borders will lose their relevance in implementing policies, whether positive or negative.
In this interconnected world, every nation and every individual contributes to the welfare of this vast ship. We share a common destiny, and only through cooperation can we complete this shared journey successfully.
The Role of Religions in This Future
Religions have a profound role in fostering unity, peace, and mutual respect in a connected world. Religious teachings can inspire cooperation and a sense of shared responsibility among diverse communities. There should be no doubt that religions possess a unique potential to build a better future for the world, provided they understand the realities ahead, prepare adequately, and consider themselves fully responsible for the future.
Embracing Diversity as Part of the Divine Design
Many religions view diversity as a divine manifestation of humanity. Embracing diversity and avoiding absolutism do not conflict with religious teachings. By adopting this perspective and refraining from discrediting each other, religious communities can respect other beliefs and create a foundation for peaceful coexistence. This does not imply compromising on religious beliefs but viewing diversity as a source of strength.
Practicing Tolerance and Mutual Respect
Religions worldwide promote values like kindness, justice, and human dignity. By focusing on these universal values, religious communities can build bridges of mutual respect and cooperation. These shared values allow religions to reach common ground without sacrificing their unique identities.
Cooperation in Shared Responsibilities
Religions can unite around common goals, such as poverty reduction, environmental protection, and social justice. By embracing these shared responsibilities, religious communities promote peace, strengthen unity, and address global issues that affect all.
Acceptance of Coexistence Without Compromising Belief
Religious communities do not need to abandon their beliefs to respect other paths. Accepting coexistence means recognizing other beliefs as part of the human experience. Focusing on shared concerns enables religions to contribute to the common good and bring people together while maintaining their principles.
Isolating Extremist Groups for a Safer World
Every religious community may encounter extremist views that disrupt coexistence. By isolating such elements, religious communities can promote an inclusive, peaceful vision of faith. This approach emphasizes that cooperation and respect should be the norm, not the exception.
Promoting Interfaith Dialogue and Understanding
Interfaith dialogue fosters mutual understanding without requiring agreement on theological matters. Such dialogues help eliminate misunderstandings and, by reducing prejudice and mistrust, build stronger, more compassionate communities. Religious leaders should move beyond dialogue as an intellectual exercise and genuinely believe in its potential to resolve issues, reduce misunderstandings, and find avenues for collaboration.
Embracing Rationality and Rejecting Superstition
To play a constructive role in the modern world, religious communities may benefit from rationally analyzing their traditions and discarding outdated beliefs. Superstition and myths hinder future generations from embracing religions and seriously weaken their ability to solve global issues. Embracing rationality, far from undermining faith, strengthens it by reinforcing beliefs that harmonize with scientific progress and respectful dialogue, elevating the position of religions.
A Peaceful Vision of the “End Times”
As we look toward a connected future, it is essential for religious communities to interpret eschatological visions in a way that emphasizes peace and avoids violence. Who can definitively claim that the appearance of the Savior and the fulfillment of their mission can only be achieved through war? A powerful cultural movement aligned with religious teachings could be envisioned to prevail over falsehood. In facing global challenges, we should emphasize interpretations that distance humanity from conflict. The ultimate goal should be a peaceful world where spiritual values inspire empathy, understanding, and unity rather than division. Most religions view war as defensive and a last resort; this should inform our approach to eschatological matters.
Some Concerns and Criticisms
Some may express concerns about balancing interfaith coexistence with maintaining the integrity of religious principles. It is essential to clarify that interfaith harmony means respecting others’ beliefs without necessarily endorsing all of them. Coexistence emphasizes mutual respect without compromising Islamic or other religious principles.
Others may worry that aligning with secular rationality will weaken religious values. However, when rationality operates within the framework of Islamic spiritual guidance, it enhances our capacity to address contemporary issues without compromising core beliefs.
Promoting interfaith unity is not about eliminating legitimate internal differences. Prioritizing unity within religious communities, based on shared values, complements efforts to build solidarity within religions.
Some might doubt the practicality of these ideas, seeing them as idealistic. However, successful experiences in religious communities show that, if stripped of extraneous influences, religious principles can adapt to social needs and create a balance between modernity and tradition. We must recognize that selective engagement with modernity is necessary, as entirely replacing modernity with tradition is an impossible dream.
Questions may arise about who has the authority to guide religious adaptation to address future challenges. Any proposed adjustments must respect theological and jurisprudential principles and involve specialized scholars to ensure alignment with religious doctrines.
Ultimately, global interconnectedness does not mean losing Islamic identity; rather, it is an opportunity to promote peace and justice while preserving integrity. By engaging globally from a position of strength, Muslims can contribute positively to the world while upholding their values.
Conclusion
In today’s interconnected world, religions have a unique role in promoting peace, cooperation, and mutual respect. Our belief in higher truths should not prevent us from recognizing and valuing diverse perspectives. By focusing on shared challenges and universal values, religious communities can lead the way toward a fairer, safer, and more united world.
Thank you for your attention.