Islamic Democracy and Islamic Governance

http://www.drsoroush.com/English/By_DrSoroush/E-CMB-20001121-Islamic_Democracy_and_Islamic_Governance.html

One of the greatest warriors in the debate regarding Islam and Democracy, and the possibility of an "Islamic Democracy" is Dr. AbdolKarim Soroush. Soroush outlines six preconditions in order for anyone to debate the notion of Democracy and Islam. These essential preconditions are:

1: The recognition of the distinction between "religion" and our "understanding of religion"
2: Distinction between "essential" and "accidental" aspects of religion.
3. Distinction between "minimalist" and "maximalist" interpretations of Islam.
4. Distinction between values and morals that are considered internal in respect to Islam and those that are external.
5. Distinction between Religious "belief" and Religious "faith".
6. Distinction between religion as an ideology/identity and religion of truth.

"Soroush believes that every Divine Law has a purpose. Once one uncovers these purposes, one has a clearer view of the law itself and can reinterpret it to fit changing modern requirements" (MEI).

This belief expands ones ability to argue for the ability for legislatures to exist within an Islamic State, and empowers the legislatures to govern more effectively. Simply due to the belief that yes, humans can not "create law" however, we can interpret divine law, and once we have realized the purposes for such divine law, we can create legislation that respects the ideals of such Divine law. Secondly, we as Muslims, are able to "seek knowledge to China" (Prophet Muhammad PBUH) thus one can only expect that the knowledge that has been obtained, even though foreign to Islam, should be respected, and can be incorporated into society so long as it respects the basic pillars of Islam. Therefore, the notion that "democracy" is foreign to Islam can be countered by the fact that certain aspects of democracy are inherently Islamic and can be attributed and used in an Islamic system of governance.

The most important tactic which Soroush imploys in this great debate, is the very fact that he is an Islamic Scholar, it is said that "Only a diamond can cut another diamond" therefore, Soroush's background enables him to use Islamic theory as a means to advocate for Islamic Democracy. Secondly, Soroush, combats those against the Islamic Democracy by using Qur'anic and Sunnah evidence. Therefore making his arguments legitimate in the eyes of fellow Islamic Scholars.