Is It Halal to Pursue a Career in Data Science?

Answered by Ustadh Farid Dingle

Question

Is it halal to pursue a career in data science?

Answer

Thank you for your important question.

Data science per se is perfectly halal, and as such there would be nothing wrong with specialising in this field.

As we are all aware however, the way that this science is and will be used in the near future is a concern. 

Your responsibility as a specialist in the field would be to inform, guide, and correct the way that this powerful science is used. You may need to refer to muftis for specific projects that you are involved in; muftis may well need to refer to you for their answers regarding use and misuse of the science.

For ethical considerations of data science, please see: The Big Nine: How the Tech Titans and Their Thinking Machines Could Warp, by Amy Webb

The Messenger of Allah (Allah bless him and give him peace said), ‘Of the greatest types of jihad is just word said before a tyrannical ruler.’ (Abu Dawud and others)

I pray this helps.

[Ustadh] Farid
Checked and Approved by Shaykh Faraz Rabbani

Ustadh Farid Dingle has completed extensive years of study in the sciences of the Arabic language and the various Islamic Sciences. During his studies, he also earned a CIFE Certificate in Islamic Finance. Over the years, he has developed a masterful ability to craft lessons that help non-Arabic speakers gain a deep understanding of the language. He currently teaches courses in the Arabic Language.