Introduction

This introductory chapter situates the study within the broader context of the genomic revolution catalyzed by the Human Genome Project (HGP). It examines the HGP’s profound impact across three pivotal dimensions: its contribution to biomedical sciences by elucidating the human genotype, its facilitation of precision and personalized medicine through extensive genome mapping, and its intersection with ethical inquiries surrounding human nature and morality. The chapter then explores the allure of genomics within the Muslim world, spurred by scientific enthusiasm, the necessity for inclusivity in precision medicine, and the interest in reviving the Islamic civilization’s golden age of science. However, it highlights a glaring gap: while Islamic ethical deliberations initially focused on the permissibility of participating in the genomic revolution, practical “how” questions arising from the establishment of national genome projects and biobanks in Muslim-majority countries since 2013 have largely remained unaddressed, particularly regarding the ethical management of incidental findings (IFs). The chapter outlines the study’s aim to bridge this gap by constructing a comprehensive Islamic ethical framework for managing IFs, thereby contributing to both secular and Islamic bioethical discourses. It advocates for critical engagement between these discourses, rejecting oversimplified stereotypes and dogmatism, and promoting intercultural dialogue. Furthermore, the chapter delineates the study’s structure, comprising two main chapters: the first focuses on constructing a robust moral framework grounded in Islamic metaethics and normative ethics, while the second delves into the ethical evaluation of disclosing various categories of IFs. Appendices include a systematic overview of ethical judgments on IFs and a draft national policy document on Islamic ethics and genomics commissioned by the Qatar Ministry of Public Health, underscoring the study’s relevance to healthcare policymaking in Muslim-majority countries.