Social Media, Information Wealth, and the Transformation of Moral Values among Muslim Youth:

An Islamic Legal and Ethical Analysis

Fatima Muhammad Daoud

 

Abstract: This study examines the impact of information abundance and social media on the moral values of Muslim youth, and how digital technologies influence behaviour, communication, and ethical development. While social media provides significant opportunities for education, religious engagement, and social connectivity, excessive and unregulated use may weaken family relationships, reduce meaningful interpersonal interaction, shorten attention spans, and expose young people to misinformation and ethically problematic content. Muslim youth, at a formative stage of development, are particularly vulnerable. The study explores the concept of akhlaq (moral character) in Islam, analysing its linguistic and technical meanings, its central role in Islamic teachings, and the distinction between innate and acquired moral qualities. It further evaluates the opportunities and challenges of social media from Islamic, ethical, and legal perspectives. A survey of university students examines patterns of use, content preferences, and perceptions of its impact on moral and religious values. The findings reveal a gap between awareness and behaviour: although most respondents recognise the moral risks of social media, this awareness does not consistently translate into responsible digital practices. It concludes by proposing educational, ethical, and policy measures to strengthen digital literacy, moral resilience, and responsible engagement with social media among Muslim youth.