Islamic Perspective on Environment and Community Ethics: The Role of Cultural Values in Building a Just Society

Abstract

Poor quality of the environment, as well as social and societal inequalities and declining social and community ties have emerged as significant issues impacting sustainable development and human health and well-being. This study brings together the Islamic view concerning environment and community ethics, analyzing how Islamic revealed texts, cultural values, and ethical values have been an effective asset in establishing a just and sustainable/community-oriented society. The research centres on the interdependence of Islamic teachings, cultural context, responsible care for the environment and the general welfare of society. The study also contributes to the understanding how cultural values influence the integration of ethics into actions and behaviors of the people in the community by affecting norms, attitudes and behaviors of the community. Culture serves as a bridging element by which Islamic environmental and social ethics are conveyed and utilized in the society. The conceptual model proposed states that Islamic teachings have an impact on cultural values, enhancing environmental responsibility and community ethics which in turn can help create a just and sustainable society. This study adopts a qualitative systematic literature review combined with thematic analysis. This research identifies four major themes: Islamic environmental and community ethics, the influence of culture on ethical behavior, community engagement, and the development of a just and sustainable society. The findings elucidate that culture functions as a core mechanism for transforming Islamic ethical ideals into practical social norms, thereby contributing to sustainable development, social inclusion, and the realization of justice.