Rethinking the Essentiality of Homo Islamicus: Exploring the Fundamental Critiques

• Published in: Journal of Islamic thought and civilization Vol. 13; no. 2; pp. 211 - 230
• Main Authors: Sholihin, Muhammad, Sugiyanto, Catur, Susamto, Akhmad Akbar
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Lahore University of Management and Technology, Department of Islamic Thought and Civilization 01-10-2023
• Subjects: Behavior; Decision making; Economic models; Economic structure; Economists; Ethics; Human nature; Islamic life & ethics; Islamization; Morality; Muslims; Principles; Values
• EISSN: 2520-0313
• ISSN: 2075-0943

This paper examines the necessity of homo islamicus perspective in Islamic economics. As such, it is a conceptual paper that emphasizes a critical approach to identify new concepts and critiques regarding homo islamicus. The conceptual approach focuses on theoretical analysis, in which the study aims to investigate the concept of homo islamicus and explain its logical implications. This approach enables the researcher to critique and identify a research gap regarding the concept of homo islamicus. The study highlighted several reasons, which identify that homo islamicus is not essential. Firstly, it was marked that the development of Islamic economics does not rely on the obedience and righteousness of economic actors. Secondly, as homo islamicus holds significant status, it should not be prioritized over other foundational concepts. Lastly, the study foregrounded that although homo islamicus is significant in its current form, it is not necessary to establish the basis for transforming the Islamic economy. Furthermore, it was also observed that it is still required in Islamic economics; thus, homo islamicus should not be the sole concept, excluding other relevant concepts for comparison. Additionally, this study underscores that homo islamicus loses its significance when it is seen as final and absolute; however, it may contradict the ongoing quest for the identity of Islamic economics.