Abstract

This paper explores the concept of "digital taqlid" as a contemporary form of intellectual blind following, exacerbated by the pervasive influence of algorithmic systems in daily life. Drawing on Al-Ghazali's critique of taqlid, the study argues that the uncritical reliance on AI-driven platforms undermines epistemic agency and leads to a crisis of intellectual autonomy. By examining the mechanisms of algorithmic authority, the research highlights the ethical and social implications of delegating decision-making processes to non-human entities. The findings suggest a need for a revitalized understanding of epistemic responsibility in the age of AI, emphasizing the role of critical thinking and ethical discernment as essential tools for navigating the digital landscape. Ultimately, the paper calls for a reassessment of our relationship with technology, advocating for a model of human-AI interaction that prioritizes intellectual integrity and preserves the essence of human agency in an increasingly automated world.