Austronesian: Journal of Language Science & Literature
Vol. 5 No. 2 (2026): Austronesian: Journal of Language Science & Literature

AI, Moral-Religious Authority, and Muslim Identity: An Interactional Sociolinguistic Analysis of the YouTube Podcast The Thinking Muslim

Moh Khoirul Anam (Fakuktas Adab dan Humaniora, UIN Sunan Ampel Surabaya, Surabaya, Jawa Timur 60237, Indonesia)
Isna Laili Qurroti A'yun (Fakultas Ilmu Budaya, Universitas Diponegoro, Semarang, Jawa Tengah 50275, Indonesia)



Article Info

Publish Date
06 Aug 2026

Abstract

The use of AI has now developed into various aspects of life. For Muslims, this development requires addressing not only technological capabilities but also how AI is used in a way aligning with Islamic values. This study aims to examine how artificial intelligence (AI) is discussed and presented to a global Muslim audience in an episode of the podcast The Thinking Muslim. This study employs a qualitative approach using a single-case study design. This analysis draws on Gumperz’s interactional sociolinguistics supported by stance theory, identity-in-interaction, and audience design. The data comes from a 60-minute 17-second episode titled “The New AI Empires,” between host Muhammad Jalal and AI expert Waleed Kadous. The episode on YouTube was downloaded and transcribed. The data was then divided into 61 conversational units, coded, and grouped into five main themes. The results of this study show that AI is discussed not only as technology, but also as a geopolitical, ideological, moral, religious, and civilizational issue. Kadous’s authority is constructed through hybrid translation, which builds on his professional background and his position as a Muslim. The identity of the Muslim group is depicted as underrepresented and dependent on the technology of others. However, this group is seen as having responsibilities and morals, as well as the ability to build technological sovereignty. Changes in language variety, personal pronouns, analogies, and re-explanations help direct the audience toward education, investment, evaluation, and institutional cooperation. Therefore, this study encourages AI that aligns with Islamic values.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

austronesian

Publisher

Subject

Humanities Education Languange, Linguistic, Communication & Media Social Sciences

Description

Austronesian: Journal of Language Science & Literature is an open access journal, single blind peer-reviewed, published by CV Wahana Publikasi. This journal is an area studies journal that publishes research articles, especially in the field of linguistics and literature covering all regions or ...