Risk, Islam, and counter-experts: Analyzing the fatwa against the Muria nuclear power plant

This article examines how the ulama (Islamic scholars) construct and categorize risk in relation to an Islamic fatwa that forbids the construction of a nuclear power plant in Muria, Indonesia. The primary objective of this article is not to ascertain the veracity of risk but rather to comprehensively analyze the multitude of assertions made by the ulama regarding risk within the fatwa. This article presents findings that indicate the risk associated with the Muria nuclear power plant is primarily shaped and being constructed by democratic principles of accountability and transparency, as analyzed through Science and Technology Studies (STS) concepts such as risk, expertise, and counter-experts. The possible contribution of Islamic values—maslaha (benefits) and mafsadah (harms)—in advancing technological advancements with ethical considerations to benefit the public at large is discussed in this article. It also promotes public participation in science and technology, emphasizing the importance of discussing decisions about nuclear power plants with the impacted communities.