Abstract

An inclusive model of ijtihad is argued for, rather than an exclusive model of ijtihad. Special focus is paid to the linkage between ijtihad, reason, science, and complementary debates regarding democracy, freedom of choice, and freedom of interpretation. It will be shown that this linkage is at the very core and essence of ijtihad. Finally the article argues that ijtihad is a concept which has the potential to revive the Islamic tradition and has the potential to positively impact the West.